This page last modified 19 September 1998
Po 171
Lammerlaw Range
Otago Land District
Tenure review approved by Commissioner of Crown Lands <July
1994
DRAFT PROPOSAL TO COMMISSIONER OF CROWN LANDS
Application for exchange of property rights
LCP Ref: Pol71 OCL Ref: Case No:
Date: 27 September 1993
PROPOSAL:
1. To surrender Pol71 Halwyn Station from 1 July 1994.
2. To agree to the allocation of 3,765 hectares (approximately) as conservation estate.
3. To classify 3,687 hectares (approximately) as farmland and dispose of this on freehold title.
LEASE:
Legal Description: Section 45, Block I, Sections 11,12 and 13, Block II, Beaumont Survey District, Run 525, Beaumont, Tuapeka East, Tuapeka West and Hedgehope Survey Districts, Run 526, Beaumont and Hedgehope Survey Districts, Run 524B and Part Run 686, Beaumont Survey District.
Run Name: Halwyn Station
Area: 7452.3 170
Lease Details: Tenure: Pastoral Lease
Term: 33 years
Expiry: 30 June 2022
Rent Review: 30 June 2000
Rental Value: $190,000
Annual Rent: $2,850
Crown Improvements: Nil
Stock Limitation in Lease: 3520 Sheep and 40 breeding cattle
Personal Stock Limitation:
6660 Sheep incl not more than 3600 breeding ewes
380 Cattle incl not more than 300 breeding cows
Lammerlaw Block Limit
2000 Wethers March - December (10 months)
LESSEE: D G & M A Crawford
LOCATION: Halwyn Station is located on State Highway 8, four kilometres from Beaumont and extends to the highest point of the Lammerlaw and Lammermoor Ranges. The property is divided into two blocks which are separated by the adjoining property Pol96 Castledent.
OTHER LAND HELD: Nil
GENERAL DESCRIPTION:
(a) Aspect:
Home Block - 60% sunny, 40% shady
Lammerlaw Block - 25% sunny, 25% shady, with the balance being
easy rolling.
(b) Altitude:
Home Block: Ranges from approximately 90 m.a.s.1. at the homestead to 743 m.a.s.1. at trig A situated near the northern boundary of the block on Medwin Road.
Lammerlaw Block - ranges from 520 m.a.s.l. at the southern end of the block adjacent to the Waipori River, to 1160 m on the crest of the Lammerlaw Range.
(c) Contour:
Home Block - 20% rolling, 80% steep.
Lammerlaw Block - 70% rolling, 30%
(d) Area Ploughable: 200 ha
(e) Rainfall: 625 - 1000 mm
(f) Water Supply: Natural streams - piped water supply scheme to troughs on lower portion of Home Block.
(g) Subdivision: Sixty two blocks in total subdivided mainly with six wire electric fences. Lammerlaw Block subdivided in two at the winter snowline.
(h) Snow Risk: Snow is a significant problem only above the snowline fence on Lammerlaw Block.
(i) Summer/Wine Balance: In terms of aspect and altitude range, the property is a well balanced unit.
(j) Shelter: Provided mainly through natural contour and patches of scrub such as manuka stands.
(k) Reversion: Regrowth of woody species such as manuka gorse, spanish heath, bracken and fern is a significant problem over some 400 ha located mainly on the lower two thirds of the Home Block and predominantly on the shady faces.
(1) Erosion: Existing erosion is not a significant problem with only slight sheet and wind erosion being present on limited areas of the property. Some slight soil slip erosion is present in the lower reaches of the Low Burn and Bowlers Creek. Under the existing management practices, erosion potential is almost nil.
(m) Weeds and Pests: The main weed problems are limited to the lower reaches of the Home Block where gorse is scattered in patches of varying density over the steep faces above State Highway 8. An area of spanish heath occurs on steeper faces above Bowlers Creek, with regrowth manuka scattered throughout the lower section of the Home Block. The main pests include rabbits, pigs and opossums, with the later being the only threat of economic singificance.
(n) Soils and Land Use Capability:
| LUC CLASS | % & Ha | SUB CLASS | LOCATION | SOIL TYPE |
| II | < 1% 22 ha |
w2 | Flood plains and low lying terraces | Taieri |
| IV | 3% 220 ha |
el3 | Easy rolling ridges at lower altitudes | Pukekoma |
| VI | 50% 3690 ha |
c1 | Rolling uplands | Lammerlaw |
| e11 | Moderately steep hills at lower altitudes | Tuapeka Hill | ||
| e23 | Strongly rolling to steep mid altitude hill country | Teviot Hill | ||
| VII | 47% 3520 ha |
c4 | Rolling to mid higher altitude tops | Teviot |
| e10 | Strongly rolling to moderately steep upland country | Teviot Hill | ||
| el2 | Steep to very steep slopes on upland valley sides | Teviot Hill Arrow Steepland |
||
| 100% 7452 ha |
(o) Cover:
| Sown pasture | 180 | |
| Fallow or feed | 20 | |
| Total Cultivation | 200 | |
| AOS & TD | 400 | |
| Native tussock (low altitude) | 789 | |
| Native tussock (high altitude) | 5663 | |
| Manuka and bracken | 400 | |
| Total: | 7252 |
PRODUCTION:
(a) Stock numbers wintered:
2100 Halfbred ewes
900 Hoggets
1200 Merino wethers
100 Rams and killers
4300 Total sheep
84 Cows
86 Calves
37 Rising two year heifers
2 Bulls
209 Total cattle
(b) Average Production Levels
95 % Lambing
3.5kg Woollhead
80 % Calving
Apart from a merino wether flock, Halwyn Station runs mainly halfbred sheep. This breed has been chosen for its ability to produce both wool and fat lambs while having good mustering and grazing capabilities on this property which comprises some steeper and reverting hill country as well as higher altitude snowgrass lands.
The main income is derived from wool which is in the 26 - 28 micron range. Some lambs are sold as fat however the majority are carried through the winter, shorn in late August and apart from the replacements, are sold to the works. Cattle policy involves leaving the best bull calves entire and selling at 18 months with the balance being sold the following spring.
The most productive areas of Halwyn Station are the cultivated oversown and improved areas Iying on the lower altitude and sunnier aspects of the Home Block. Extensive areas of higher native tall tussock land located on higher portions of the Home Block and below the snowline fence on the Lammerlaw Bloclc are also valuable grazing areas for wethers and the summering of ewes.
Particular problems of the property mainly involve the tendency for reversion to woody species on the lower blocks particularly the shady faces. Due to low natural soil fertility and Ph levels, any pasture improvement programme requires significant levels of topdressing input.
PREVIOUS HISTORY:
Halwyn Station has been leased by the Crawford Family since 1927 with Mr Donald Crawford taking over the lease from his father in the early 1970's. Since this date, an extensive development programme has been implemented resulting in subdivision of the property into sixty blocks, oversowing of 400 ha of tussock land along with cultivation of some 200 ha which is now in improved pasture.
CONSERVATION VALUES:
1 Botanical
Halwyn Station lies in the Waipori and Lawrence Ecological District of the greater Lammerlaw Ecological Region. The Waipori Ecological District contains the extensive Lammerlaw and Lammermoor tussock tops and wetland areas while the Lawrence Ecological District contains mainly highly developed farmlands with pockets of forest and scrublands.
The geology of the area is predominantly simple basement rock of quartz feldspathic schist. Halwyn Station contains the high points of the Lammerlaw and Lam mermoor Tops as well as the source of several rivers' the most notable being the Taieri, Waipori and Deep Stream. The extensive tussockland on the tops has been identified as having important hydrological values for catchment and water yield protection.
A PNAP survey was completed on the Lammerlaw Range during the summers of 1990 and 1991. A recommended area for protection (RAP) known as "Lammerlaw Tops RAP3" containing important conservation values and encompassing some 3700 ha was identified. The majority of this RAP lies within Halwyn Station, comprising all the land north of the Lammerlaw Tops and extending south almost to the snowline fence. The remainder of the RAP west of Beaumont Stream is on Castledent and has recently been surrendered out of the lease. This RAP was identified as having the best Chionochloa rigida tussock grassland in the region. Some nine vegetation groups were identified in this area out of a total of 15 groups within the Waipori Ecological District.
Extensive string bogs along the tops are a unique feature of the region, along with bog pools and snowbanks. The latter, while being at a relatively low altitude, are well developed because of the aspect of the tops and frequency of snowfalls. The snowbanks contain a diverse range of species such as Caltha obtusa, Astelia linearis and Singdia baxterii.
Elsewhere within the grassland, whipcord hebes Phyllocoadus alpinus, and bog pine are found.
Around the Lammerlaw Tops the tussockland is primarily scattered and grades into extensive cushionfields along with Poa Colensoi. Lower down the slopes the snow tussock is unmodified with few adventive species, until the 900 metre contour line. Below this altitude on the Waipori River side the sunny slopes have less tussock cover -this is the only visible subtle change. Below the existing snowline fence the tussock grassland is in a fairly natural condition, with tussocks being more sparse and shorter in stature. At around the 700 metre level, regenerating kanuka forms part of the picture, along with a small remnant stand of beech forest located alongside the Waipori River.
The Castledent Pastoral Lease lies between The Home and Lammerlaw Blocks which are some three kilometres apart.
The Home Block tops are similar in nature to the lower Lammerlaw Block. Good healthy snow tussock grading into strong kanuka regeneration is very evident in the upper Medwins Creek catchment on rolling ridges and stream faces. A good altitudinal sequence is found here where the tussock grades into kanuka, Dracophyllum shrubland and broadleaf species. While part of the tussockland has been burned in the past and has some exotic grassland component, it has a high degree of naturalness.
Below this upper catchment, Medwins Creek flows into a steep-sided valley, which becomes Bowlers Creek. In its middle reaches an extensive stand of silver beech (Nothofagus menziesii) occurs, one of the largest remnants, in the northern part of the Lawrence Ecological District.
This silver beech forest contains a good variety of plant species; marbleleaf, fuchsia, lancewoods, Hebe spp., Coprosma spp., and Horopito, along with a variety of ferns and orchids. The beech forest varies in size in the catchment with some areas being isolated in smaller catchments. The edge of the beech tends to be kanuka, Dracophy llum and/or bracken, all in varying stages of regeneration. This regeneration occurs on hillslopes until the tussocky spurs have become developed. These areas also have a range of species, Pittosporum tenuifolium broadleaf, kowhai, cabbage trees and B/echnum species. The mixed forest in Bowlers Creek extends well down towards the main road and provides a good altitudinal range from 200 metres above sea level to 600 metres.
Elsewhere on the property tussockland has a high component of pasture grasses and is being extensively developed. Patches of kanuka remain in gullies and in many places are regenerating actively. Alongside the main road gorse, pines and Himalayan honeysuckle complete the picture.
2 Fauna
Insects
The insect fauna of the Waipori Ecological District is of national importance, being seen as a big-geographical centre with southern continental affinities. A total of 511 species have been found covering some 13 orders. This fauna has been described as comprehensive and rich in comparison with other parts of Otago. Some species are endemic to the range or are rare. A comprehensive survey as part of the PNAP survey by Patrick, Barratt, Ward and McLellan, 1992, outlines the insects of the ecological district.
As Halwyn covers the most extensive natural area on the range, including the highest points, many of the insects documented occur on this property. Many of these insects depend on habitats that have not been disturbed by fire, browsing or stock trampling.
Lizards
Common lizards and skinks occur throughout the ecological district, with jewelled geckos being found in the Lammerlaw Stream catchrnent. Halwyn has no known special populations, but further research may change this.
Birds
Halwyn has a diverse birdlife, ranging from bellbirds, greywarblers and tomtits occupying the beech forest through to oystercatchers and banded dotterels occupying the wetlands along the tops. The New Zealand falcon and Australian harrier tend to range over the tussockland. Other birds in this open habitat are the common pipit and skylark.
Feral Mammals
Pigs appear to be the main feral animals on Halwyn and have caused some damage in the wetlands around the Lammermoor Tops. Hares also occur in these tussocklands, but not in any great numbers.
A few fallow deer occur in the bush of Bowlers Creek, but because of the area's accessibility, these numbers do not build up and cause any problems.
3 Landscape:
Halwyn has three broad landscape types encompassing the property. The lower altitude block of downland country is predominantly exotic pasture with vestiges of shrubland and tussockland. The latter improves in naturalness and intactness as altitude is gained.
The large enclave of beech forest and surrouding shrubland
is the only remaining natural feature in this portion of the property.
Other areas may have potential to form landscape components over
time if regeneration is allowed to occur. One area is adjacent
to State Highway 8, near the disused railway tunnel, which is
currently heavily infested with gorse and some hardwood species.
If left intact this area could, with time., provide a pleasant
backdrop to the highway when the native succession overtops the
gorse.
The other two landscape types are:
1 High plateau - which has high landscape values because of its intactness and naturalness. This plateau encompasses the Lamrnermoor Tops, theChionochloa rigida tussockland and the mosaic patches of blue tussock near the trig.
2 Plateau rise - the tilted land between the Lammermoor and Waipori lowlands. Notable features are the even graded tussockland and dissected gully systems. This landscape also has high landscape values.
Both areas are sensitive to human interference, tracking, buildings, fencelines, wilding pine spread and grazing. Protection of these landscapes is considered highly desirable.
4 History:
Little appears to be known at this point, of the early Maori occupation on Halwyn, however, with the Clutha River being a major route into the hinterland, it is likely that the Home block was utilised for food gathering.
Halwyn itself was on the fringe of early European colonisation. Lawrence sprang up in response to early gold mining, the influence of which extended its tentacles on to and around Halwyn.
One of the earliest water races to service Gabriels Gully was known as Kittos Race,having its origin in Medwins Creek on Halwyn. This short race of 500 metres ran from Medwins Creek across the Medwin Road dropping water into Youngs Creek. This water was picked up from a dam in Youngs Creek and ran down the true left towards Munros Gully.
Medwin Road has an historical significance as it follows the old bullock track from Lawrence to Alexandra. In places the old lines are visible on Halwyn, showing up as deep? furrow lines especially around Trig A.
Between the two blocks on Halwyn, two large water races known as the Tuapeka and Waipori water races follow Gardiner's track and feed into Gabriels Gully.
On the top block three water races are found. Lower down on the eastern boundary of Halwyn the Golden Crescent starts out of Deep Creek at about 660 metres and feeds into a syphon lower down the Waipori River. The other two races known as Johnsons and Farrels take water from Deep Stream and feed water into the headwaters of Stony Stream. Farrels is a short race and is almost on the Halwyn boundary, while Johnsons race is one kilometre west of Farrels.
One early hut is known on the northern tip of the boundary in the Taieri River and is probably associated with gold workings in this area.
CONSERVATION INTEREST PROPOSALS:
Two main areas of conservation interest have been identified on Halywn Station and are proposed for inclusion in DOC state. These areas include:
a) The Lammerlaw Tops- comprising all }and above and to the north of the snowline fence.
b) The Bowlers Creek Bush- comprising mainly forested areas on the Home Block adjacent to the creek.
Access:
Legal access points are available via a formed farm track (running through the lower Homestead Block) which joins up with Gardiner's track in Castledent. Legal access also occurs from this track down a gully into the beech forest in Bowlers Creek, providing good future public access.
The marginal strips along Bowlers Creek will provide adequate public access to the adjacent proposed scenic reserve.
Medwin Road which passes through the adjoining Castledent property into Halwyn is also a legal road and will provide public access to the beech forest.
Access via legal paper roads into the Top Block, is well catered for. Gardiner's track provides access into the area via formed forestry roads to the Waipori River. From here a paper road runs through the middle to the Lammerlaw Block joining up with legal access running along the Lammerlaw Tops.
A road through Castledent from Gardiner's track will link the proposed Bowlers Creek Scenic Reserve with the Lammerlaw Tops Stewardship area along with the existing Deep Stream Scenic Reserve.
Public Use:
Mason in Volume 1 of his book "Outdoor Recreation in Otago" describes the Lammerlaw-Lammermoor Mountains as infrequently visited; having a wilderness quality; and one of the last areas of unroaded tussock grasslands in Central Otago. His suggested designation is as a " remote experience zone" over the tops and a " natural experience zone", elsewhere. Halwyn falls within both zones.
The Lammerlaw Tops hold a variety of attractions for the naturalist and those who wish to disappear from civilisation for a period. Tramping and mountain biking along the tops are possible attractions which are available via improved access through Nardoo or Deep Stream Scenic Reserve.
Four wheel drive vehicles will continue to present a dilemma in the area as their continued use will cause tracks to rut and boggy areas to increase in size. One of the major problems associated with the area is confining vehicle use to tracks and avoiding damage to string bogs and wetlands.
Winter experiences will largely be confined to cross-country skiing. In winter the tops take on a truly remote experience, being exposed to the southerlies. Laclc of both shelters and tracks provides unique areas in mid winter during which usage will probably continue to be infrequent.
The beech forest itself presents some opportunities for recreation.
A track up Bowlers Creek from the highway to the forest could
in time provide a pleasant side
trip for the visitor in the region. With the development of historic
features around Lawrence, visitors may wish to utilise these proposed
areas.
Hunting in the area is very limited with pigs on the tops possibly holding some attractions for a few. The adjacent Blue Mountains hold a better attraction for deer than a small enclave of beech forest.
Game-birds (quail and chukar) are widely distributed but probably do not hold much of an attraction in the area as the land is only accessible on foot.
Upland streams are not only spawning grounds for trout, but also hold a variety of indigenous fauna, with the Waipori River itself being a popular fishery and a pleasant picnic environment.
3. Management Considerations:
Management inputs will not be great - the area does not have high conservation problems with regard to rabbits and woody weeds. A few ''wilding" pines have been noted during field inspections.
Hawkweed does not have a hold in the area and because of the strong tussock growth, it is not considered to be a potential problem in the area. Apart from general landowner liaison, the main management considerations are:
Fencing
A new fence on the Beaumont-Halwyn boundary is required to restrict stock access from Beaumont on to the Lammerlaw Tops. Some five kilometres is required. This fence will link up with a relatively new Castledent-Beaumont boundary near the Beaumont River. A new fence below the snowline on the adjoining Castledent property will link up with the proposed conservation block on Halwyn. An existing poor fence along the tops between (Castledent and Halwyn will not need replacing because of this deal. This represents a saving of some eight to nine kilometres of fencing.
The proposal for tenure change encompasses utilising the existing snowline fence within the Top Block of Halwyn as it is a realistic boundary and it is only at this point that the nature of the tussockland changes. To fence the RAP boundary at 1000 metres would involve extra cost and result in a narrow strip or block above the snowline fence.
It is not envisaged that fencing will occur around the beech forest except in key areas where increased stock pressure may warrant some fencing.
Recreation
This will principally involve signposting of the area to indicate that it is conservation estate. Problems of controlling off-road vehicle usage will continue, however, good liaison with adjoining landowners and better public education may help resolve part of this issue. Other concerns such as fire will figure as potential hazards along with SAR hazards. These are all normal day to day functions of the department.
Water Conservation
Protection of the Lammerlaws will also play a vital role in maintaining water quality and yield in the catchments. The Dunedin City Council has carried out research indicating that protection of the tussocklands will maintain water yields and quality and that destocking is vital in the longer term. Deep Stream feeds the DCC water supply for the city of Dunedin. Protection of other catchments will also ensure good water yields for other creeks and rivers that flow into Lake Mahinerangi and that provide water for power generation.
PUBLIC COMMENT:
The proposed tenure review was discussed with the principal NGOs on 14 July 1993. The groups were generally supportive of the proposal as it led towards the protection of part of the Lammerlaw/Lammermoor tops which has been a long standing conservation/public use objective. It was also accepted that adequate public access was available.
The property was visited with Trevor Howse of the Ngai Tahu Maori Trust Board on 13 August. There were no immediate areas of interest identified. The Trust Board will provide comment on request.
DETAILED PROPOSALS:
Following Mr Crawford informing Landcorp in early 1993 of his intention to sell Halwyn Station, negotiations have been in progress between the lessee, Landcorp and DOC regarding issues of freeholding and protection of conservation values. Agreement has been reached between the negotiating parties, the outcome of which is that tenure change proposals on Halwyn involve two areas being recommended for conservation use:
Lammerlaw Tops
Encompassing some 3600 hectares and following the snowline fence and the property boundary around the Lammerlaw Tops, this area will become a Stewardship land, being destocked and managed for conservation.
Existing legal access points provide good practical access into this area.
Bowlers Creek Bush
An extended area encompassing the beech forest and regenerating scrubland in the catchment is envisaged as making an ideal reserve. This would also be extended downstream to encompass extended marginal strips as the regeneration is occurring on the steeper slopes before a change in slope gives way to pasture or future pasture.
This area has good existing legal access which may in time be extended to a track system running through the bush.
It is not envisaged that fencing will be required, except if pressure from stock develops in certain areas. The approximate boundanes are identified on the accompanying map, but broadly follow the change of slope line around the catchment, linking up with Medwin Road in the north. This area includes the short portion of Kittos water race.
DISCUSSION:
The Lammerlaw and Lammermoor Ranges are the only block mountain ranges in Otago that are still in a natural condition. These extensive tussock grasslands represent a flora type that was once widespread throughout Otago. The flora and fauna on these ranges are diverse and of high conservation importance. Sympathetic management has resulted in these values surviving today.
Tenure change represents an opportunity for the Crown to acquire land on the Lammerlaw/Lammermoor Tops and the beech forest adjacent to Bowlers Creek.
DESCRIPTION OF AREA TO BE FREEHOLDED:
a. Area: 3687 hectares (subject to survey)
b. Aspect: Well balanced, sunny/shady.
c. Altitude: 90 to 999 metres asl.
d. Contour: 40% rolling, 60% steep.
e. Area Ploughable: 200 ha.
f. Rainfall: 625 - 1000 mm
g. Water Supply: Piped water supply scheme to lower portion. Natural streams. Adequate.
h. Shelter: Contour and scrub patches.
i. Reversion: Regrowth of woody species such as manuka, gorse, Spanish heath, bracken and fern is a significant problem.
j. Erosion: Not of any significance.
k. Weeds and pests: The main weed problems are limited to the lower reaches of the Home Block where gorse is scattered in patches of varying density over the steep faces above State Highway 8. An area of spanish heath occurs on steeper faces above Bowlers Creek, with regrowth manuka scattered throughout the lower section of the Home Block. The main pests include rabbits, pigs and opossums, with the later being the only threat of economic significance.
l. Soils and Land Use Capability
| LUC CLASS | % & Ha | SUB CLASS | LOCATION | SOIL TYPE |
| II | 0.5% 22 ha |
w2 | Flood plains and low lying terraces | Taieri |
| IV | 6% 220 ha |
el3 | Easy rolling ridges at lower altitudes | Pukekoma |
| VI | 93.5% 3445 ha |
cl | Rolling uplands | Lammerlaw |
| e 11 | Moderately steep hills at lower altitudes | Tuapeka Hill | ||
| e23 | Strongly rolling to steep mid altitude hill country | Teviot Hill | ||
| 100% 3687 ha |
m Cover
Sown pasture 180
Fallow or feed a 20
Total Cultivation 200
AOS & TD 400
Native tussock 2687
Manuka and bracken 400
Total 3487
Total Property Area 3687
n. Likely stock numbers
2100 FIaltbred ewes
900 Hoggets
600 Merino wethers
100 Rams and killers
3700 Total sheep
70 Cows
65 Calves
35 Rising two year heifers
2 Bulls
172 Total cattle
RECOMMENDATIONS:
That you approve the proposal being advertised with the following outcomes being recommended:
1. The surrender of Pol71 Halwyn under Section 145 of the Land Act 1948.
2. The allocation of approximately 3765 hectares to the Department of Conservation as Conservation Area
3. The classification of approximately 3687 hectares as "farm land" under Section 51 of the Land Act 1948.
4. The preferential allocation of approximately 3687 hectares to DG & MA Crawford under Section 54 of the Land Act 1948.
Prepared by:
Geoff Heward
for Manager, Alexandra
LANDCORP PROPERTY LIMITED
Mike Clare
for Regional Conservator
DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION
DOC Conservation Resources Resport
HALWYN STATION
Halwyn Station is one of the few lower altitude pastoral leases in Otago. It is located on State Highway 8, four kilometres from Beaumont and extends to the highest point of the Lammermoor Range (1150m). The property is divided into two legal entities which are separated by the adjoining pastoral lease of Castledent.
This tenure change exercise has been fast tracked because the lessee has put his property on the market and indicated that he was interested in obtaining freehold title. In view of the long outstanding conservation interests in this property, along the Lammerlaw Tops, an inspection and valuation have been done with a view to achieving a satisfactory outcome for both parties under a tenure change scenario.
The report below outlines the conservation values on the property and our recommendations:
Botanical Values
Halwyn Station lies in the Waipori and Lawrence Ecological District of the greater Lammerlaw Ecological Region. The Waipori Ecological District contains the extensive Lammerlaw and Lammermoor tussock tops and wetland areas while the Lawrence Ecological District contains mainly highly developed farmlands with pockets of forest and shrublands.
The geology of the area is predominantly basement rock of quartz feldspathic schist. Halwyn Station contains the high points of the Lammerlaw and Lammermoor Tops and has several important rivers sourcing from this property, the most notable are the Taieri, Waipori and Deep Stream. The extensive tussockland on the tops has been identified as having important hydrological values for catchment and water yield protection.
The top portion of Halwyn was subject to a PNAP survey over the summers of 1990 and 1991 and part of the property was identified as having important conservation values. This recommended area for protection (RAP) known as the Lammerlaw Tops RAP 3 and encompasses some 3700 hectares -the majority of which includes Halwyn Station. The remaining area near Beaumont Stream is on Castledent and has recently been surrendered out of the lease. This RAP was identified as having the best Chionochloa rigida tussock grassland in the region. Some nine vegetation groups were identified in this area out of 15 groups.
Extensive string bogs along the tops are a unique feature of the region, along with bog pools and snowbanks. The latter, while being at a relatively low altitude, are well developed because of the aspect of the tops and frequency of snowfalls. The snowbanks contain a diverse range of species such as Caltha obtusa, Astelia linearis and Gingdia baxterii.
Elsewhere within the grassland whipcord hebes, Phyllocladus alpinus and bog pine are found.
Around the Lammerlaw Tops the tussockland is primarily scattered and has graded into extensive cushionfields along with Poa colensoi. Lower down the slopes the snow tussock is unmodified with few adventive species, until the 900 metre contour line. Below this altitude on the Waipori River side the sunny slopes have less tussock cover - this is the only visible subtle change. Below the existing snowline fence the tussock grassland is in a fairly natural condition, with the tussocks being sparser and shorter in stature. At around the 700 metre level, regenerating kanuka forms part of the picture, along with a small remnant stand of beech forest located alongside the Waipori River.
The Homestead Block is separated from the Lammerlaw Block by some three kilometres by the Castledent Pastoral Lease.
The tops here are similar in nature to the lower Lammerlaw Block. Good healthy snow tussock on rolling ridges and stream faces, grading into strong kanuka regeneration. This is very evident in the upper Medwins Creek catchment. A good altitudinal sequence is found here where the tussock grades into kanuka, Dracophyllum shrubland and broadleaf species. While part of the tussockland has been burned in the past and has some exotic grassland component, it has a high degree of naturalness.
Below this upper catchment, Medwins Creek flows into a steep-sided valley, which becomes Bowlers Creek. In its middle reaches an extensive stand of silver beech (Nothofagus menziesii) occurs, one of the largest remnants, in the northern part of the Lawrence Ecological District.
This silver beech forest contains a good variety of plant species, marbleleaf, fuchsia, lancewoods, Hebe spp., Coprosma spp., and Horopito, along with a variety of ferns and orchids. The beech forest varies in size in the catchment with some areas being isolated in smaller catchments. The edge of the beech tends to be kanuka, Dracophyllum and/or bracken, all in varying stages of regeneration. This regeneration occurs on hillslopes until the tussocky spurs have become developed. These areas also have a range of species, Pitrosporum tenuifolium, broadleaf, kowhai, cabbage trees and Blechnum species. The mixed forest in Bowlers Creek extends well down towards the main road and provides a good altitudinal range from 200 metres above sea level to 600 metres.
Elsewhere on the property tussockland has a high component of pasture grasses and is being extensively developed. Patches of kanuka remain in gullies, but are not of any size or significance and in many places it is regenerating actively. Alongside the main road gorse, pines and Himalayan honeysuclde complete the picture.
Fauna
Insects
The insect fauna of the Waipori Ecological District is of national importance, it is seen as a biogeographical centre with southern continental affinities. A total of 511 species have been found covering some 13 orders. This fauna has been described as comprehensive and rich in comparison with other parts of Otago. Some species are endemic to the range or are rare. A comprehensive survey as part of the PNAP survey by Patrick, Barratt, Ward and McLellan, 1992, outlines the insects of the ecological district.
As Halwyn covers the most extensive natural area on the range, including the highest points, many o the insects documented occur on this property. Many of these insects depend on habitats that have no been disturbed by fire, browsing or stock trampling.
Lizards
Common lizards and skinks occur throughout the ecological district, with jewelled geckos being found in the Lammerlaw Stream catchment. Halwyn has no known special populations, but further research may change this.
Birds
Halwyn has a diverse birdlife, ranging from bellbirds, greywarblers and tomtits occupying the beech forest through to oystercatchers and banded dotterels occupying the wetlands along the tops. The New Zealand falcon and Australian harrier tend to range over the tussockland. Other birds in this open habitat are the common pipit and skylark.
Feral Mammals
Pigs appear to be the main feral animals on Halwyn and have caused some damage in the wetlands around the Lammermoor Tops. Hares also occur in these tussocklands, but not in any great numbers.
A few fallow deer occur in the bush of Bowlers Creek, but because of the area's accessibility, these numbers do not build up and cause any problems.
Landscape
Halwyn has three broad landscape types encompassing the property. The lower altitude block of downland country is predominantly exotic pasture with vestitures of shrubland and tussockland. The latter improves in naturalness and intactness as altitude is gained.
The large enclave of heech forest and surrounding shrubland is the only remaining natural feature in this portion of the property. Other areas may have potential to form landscape components over time if regeneration is allowed to occur. One area is adjacent to State Highway 8, near the disused railway tunnel, which is currently heavily infested with gorse and some hardwood species. If left intact this area could, with time, provide a pleasant backdrop to the highway when the native succession overtops the gorse.
The other two landscape types are:
1 High plateau - which has high landscape values because of its intactness and naturalness. This plateau encompasses the Lammermoor Tops, the Chionochloa rigida tussockland and the mosaic patches of blue tussock near the trig.
2 Plateau rise - the tilted land between the Lammermoor and Waipori lowlands. Notable features are the even graded tussockland and dissected gully systems. This landscape also has high landscape values.
Both areas are sensitive to human interference, tracking, buildings, fencelines, wilding pine spread and grazing. Protection of these landscapes is considered highly desirable.
Recreation
Legal access is available via a formed farm track running through the lower Halwyn Block which joins up with Gardiner's track in Castledent. Legal access also occurs from this track into the beech forest in Bowlers Creek, providing good future public access.
Bowlers Creek itself has a marginal strip and protection of the forest in the creek will provide adequate public access.
Medwin Road through Castledent into Halwyn is also a legal wad and will connect with any protection proposal to provide public access to the beech forest.
Access via legal paper roads into the Top Block is well catered for. Gardiner's track provides access into the area via formed forestry roads to the Waipori River. From here a paper road runs through the middle to the block joining up with legal access running along the Lammerlaw Tops.
A road through Castledent from Gardiner's track will also join a recently surrendered block which will also provide good access to the tops.
Mason in Volume 1 of his "Ootdoor Recreation in Otago" book describes that the Lammerlaw-lammermoor area is infrequently visited and has a wilderness quality as it is one of the last areas of unroaded tussock grassland in Central Otago. His suggested designation is a remote experience zone over the tops and a natural experience elsewhere. Halwyn falls within both zones.
The Lammerlaw Tops hold a variety of auractlons for the naturalist and those within to disappear from civilisation for a period. Tramping and mountain biking are possible attractions along the tops. this may occur via improved access through Nardoo or Deep Stream Scenic Reserve on to the tops.
Four wheel drive vehicles will continue to present a dilemma in the area as their continued use will cause tracks to rut and boggy areas to increase in size. One of the major problems associated with the area is confining vehicle use to tracks and keeping them out of the string bogs and wetlands.
Winter experiences will largely be confined to cross-country skiing. In winter the tops take on a truly remote experience, exposed to the southerlies, lack of shelters and tracks provides unique areas in mid winter. It is probable that usage will continue to be infrequent during the winter.
The beech forest itself presents some opportunities for recreation. A track up Bowler Creek from the highway to the forest could in time provide a pleasant side trip for the visitor in the region. With the development of historic features around Lawrence, visitors to the area may wish to visit a variety of areas, cultural sites, tussocklands and beech forest.
Hunting in the area is very limited, pigs on the tops may hold some attractions for a few. The Blue Mountains adjacent hold a better attraction for deer than a small enclave of beech forest.
Game-birds are widely distributed (quail and chukar) and probably do not hold much of an attraction in the area as the land is only accessible on foot.
Upland streams are spawning grounds for trout and also hold a variety of indigenous fauna. Waipori River itself is a popular fishery and also provides a pleasant picnic environment.
History
Little appears to be known at this point on the early Maori occupation of Halwyn. As the Clutha River was a major route into the hinterland it is likely that the lower block of Halwyn was utilised for food gathering. More information is being sought.
Halwyn itself was on the fringe of early European colonisation. Lawrence sprang up in response to early gold mining and mining's influence extended its tentacles on to and around Halwyn.
One of the earliest water races to service Gabriels Gully was known as Kittos Race and had its origin in Medwins Creek on Halwyn. This short race of 500 metres runs from Medwins Creek across the Medwin Road and drops water into Youngs Creek. This water was picked up from a darn in Youngs Creek and runs down the true left towards Munros Gully.
Medwin Road has an historical significance as it follows the old bullock track from Lawrence to Alexandra. In places the old lines are visible, especially around Trig A on Halwyn, and show up as deep furrow lines.
Between the two blocks on Halwyn, two large water ???? known as the Tuapeka and Waipori water races follow Gardiner's track and feed into Gabriels Gully.
On the top block three water ???? are found. Lower down on the eastern boundary the Golden Crescent starts out of Deep Creek at about 660 metres and feeds into a syphon lower down the Waipori River. The other two races known as Johnsons and Farrels take water from Deep Stream and feed water into the headwaters of Stony Stream. Farrels is a short race and is almost on the Halwyn boundary, while Johnsons race is one kilometre west of Farrels.
One early hut is known on the northern tip of the boundary in the Taieri River and is probably associated with gold workings in this area.
Management Considerations
Management inputs will not be great - the area does not have high conservation problems with regard to rabbits and woody weeds. A few "wilding" pines have been noted during field inspections, but this is principally a one-off operation.
Hawkweed does not have a hold in the area and because of the strong tussock growth, it is not considered to be a potential problem in the area. Apart from general landowner liaison, the main management considerations are:
1 Fencing
A new fence on the Beaumont-Halwyn boundary is required to restrict stock access from 13eaumont on to the Lammerlaw Tops. Some five kilometres is required. This fence will link up with a relatively new Castledent-Beaumont boundary near the Beaumont River. A new fence below the snowline on Castledent will link up with the proposed conservation block on Halwyn. An existing poor fence along the tops between Castledent and Halwyn will not need replacing because of this deal. This represents a saving of some eight to nine kilometres of fencing.
The proposal for tenure change may encompass utilising the existing snowline fence on the Top Block of Halwyn as it appears to be a realistic boundary and it is only at this point that the nature of the tussockland changes. To fence the RAP boundary at 1000 metres would involve extra cost and result in a narrow strip or block above the snowline fence.
It is not envisaged that fencing will occur around the beech forest except in key areas where increased stock pressure may warrant some fencing. Regeneration will result in a reduction of stock movement over time.
2 Recreation
This will principally be signposting the area to indicate that it is conservation estate. Problems of controlling off-road vehicle usage will continue to be a problem. Good liaison with adjoining landowners and better public education may help resolve part of this issue. Other concerns such as fire will figure as potential hazards along with SAR hazards. These are all normal day to day functions of the department.
3 Water Conservation
Protection of the Lammerlaws will also play a vital role in protecting water quality and yield in the catchments. The Dunedin City Council has carried out research that indicates that protection of the tussocklands will protect water yields and quality and that destocking is vital in the longer term. Deep Stream feeds the DCC water supply for the city of Dunedin. Protection of other catchments will also ensure good water yields for other creeks and rivers that flow into Lake Mahinerangi and that provide water for power generation.
Tenure change on Halwyn involves two areas:
1 Lammerlaw Tops
Encompassing some 3000 hectares and following the approximate RAP boundary identified m the Waipori survey. It is envisaged that this land will become Stewardship land and will be destocked and managed for conservation.
The lower line of the RAP, while it encompasses the primary natural values, could be extended down the slope further as the degree of naturalness does not change until the snowline fence at 900 metres above sea level. If this fence was utilised it would save five to six kilometres of expensive fencing. Otherwise, a fairly practical fence boundary exists at 1000 metres, just below the RAP boundary. A higher fence involves steeper gully sidling-q and more cost and a higher degree of landscape degradation.
It is envisaged that this line is flexible and will depend on the outcome of negotiations.
2 Bowlers Creek Bush
An extended area encompassing the beech forest and regenerating scrubland in the catchment is envisaged as making an ideal reserve. This would also be extended downstream to encompass extended marginal strips as the regeneration is occurring on the steeper slopes before a change in slope gives way to pasture or future pasture.
This area has good existing legal access which may m time be extended to a track system running through the bush.
It is not envisaged that fencing will be required, except if pressure from stock develops in certain areas the approximate boundaries are identified on the accompanying map, but broadly follow the change of slope line around the catchment and links up with Medwin Road in the north. This area includes the short portion of Kittos water race.
A third area with possibilities is the faces above State Highway 8 on the bottom of the property. These faces are gorse covered with enclaves of bush regenerating through the gorse. In time this regeneration will dominate the gorse providing a scenic backdrop to the state highway - something that is lacking on this route.
Summary
The Lammerlaw and Lammermoor Ranges are the only block mountain range in Otago that is still in a natural condition. These extensive tussock grasslands represent a flora type that was once widespread throughout Otago. The flora and fauna on these ranges are diverse and of high conservation importance. Sympathetic management has resulted in these values surviving today.
Tenure change represents an opportunity for the Crown to acquire land on the tops and because of the high conservation values this process should be sympathetic to the lessee's interest.
Recommendations
1 That:
(a) 3000 hectares approximately, known as RAP 3 Lammerlaw Tops, be surrendered from P 171 as a conservation area under section 7 of the Conservation Act 1987, to be controlled by the Department of Conservation; and
(b) 300 hectares in Bowlers Creek be surrendered as scenic reserve under section 19a of the Reserves Act 1977.
2 That legal access routes be clearly defined, if required, to allow good public access over the property on to the proposed conservation land.
3 That this tenure change deal be given a priority, because of a possible land sale, and that an exchange of value should be seriously considered.
Mike Clare
SCO (PNA/Pastoral)
Public Access New Zealand
Tuesday, December 21, 1993
(dated 27 September 1993)
Ken Taylor
Manager
Landcorp Property Limited
P O Box 27
ALEXANDRA
Dear Mr Taylor,
Thank you for the opportunity to comment on the draft proposal.
Prior consultations with our representative has greatly assisted
our consideration of the proposals.
The proposals are presented in three steps--
PANZ is in agreement with the proposals. They are in accord with
the statutory requirements of the Land Act and will significantly
add to nature conservation and recreational opportunities in the
eastern Otago region.
We believe that the report correctly identifies the main areas
of conservation interest as the Lammerlaw tops, being all the
area above the snowline fence, and the Bowlers Creek bush.
Lammerlaw Tops
Addition of the Lammerlaw tops to the conservation estate, along
with adjoining land already reserved or committed for public acquisition,
will be a significant advance for nature conservation and hydrological
management. We note that the area proposed contains the majority
of a large RAP previously identified on the range. This reservation
will also formalise the occasional public recreation that takes
place summer and winter. The 'remote experience' character of
the tops is a valuable resource that should be retained in any
future management of the area.
We believe that the snowline fence, at approximately 860 metre
asl, is appropriate as the boundary between freehold and conservation
area.
Bowlers Creek Bush
Reservation of this 'hidden' catchment is an exciting prospect.
Prior to the investigation of this property for a land exchange
the existence of an extensive stand of silver beech and outlyers
was unknown to us, and we suspect to most people. A reservation
with walking tracks extending down-valley to State Highway 8 will
provide a most welcome amenity. There are currently no opportunities
for walking in natural environments alongside the main road between
Milton and Alexandra. With proper development and signposting
a variety of short, circuit, and longer walks will be possible
from the state highway. Lower Bowlers Creek also provides opportunities
for very pleasant away-from-the road picnics and stream-side relaxation.
We strongly endorse this proposed reservation and make the following
observations and recommendations:
There is reasonable visibility for vehicles travelling north to south, but very poor the opposite direction. This could be improved by fill to create a pull-out further down the straight towards the south.
Remnant beech beside Waipori River
We note from the report the existence of a small remnant stand
of beech alongside the Waipori River. We have not been able to
inspect this. If this extends beyond the boundaries of marginal
strips it would be desirable to create a small reserve around
it.
Marginal strips
It appears that there is a marginal strip already in existence
along the Waipori River, but we are uncertain which bank it is
on. If not on the Halwyn side, it is important that one be established.
Similarly there is another strip up one bank of Deep Creek.
Note our earlier comment that there are unformed roads up Bowlers
Creek, not marginal strips as stated in the report.
Access provisions
In theory there is good public access to the two areas proposed
for public reservation, plus the banks of the Waipori River.
Unfortunately the legal alignment of most roads, at best, only
approximate the alignment of formations. The following roads need
further investigation as to their legal status--
(1) The unnamed road from SH 8 along the leading ridge west of Bowlers Creek to join Medwin Road. This approximates the legal alignment, but looks a bit 'messy' at the bottom end (within Pt Run 686). This should be sorted out before freeholding on this block.
(2) Medwin Road. The alignment of the upper section of this road within Halwyn similarly needs investigation, and sorting out if necessary.
(3) Access to the Lammerlaw block from the south will depend on using unformed roads either through Castle Dent or forestry land, then through the proposed freehold on Halwyn. We recommend that these two roads be sufficiently defined on survey plans, within Halwyn, to allow future identification on the ground. These unformed roads will also provide legal access to the new freehold title.
There is adequate legal access to the top of the Lammerlaws, greatly
assisted by all the new reservations on the range.
Search and Rescue etc.
There are comments within the report about 'SAR hazards', being
deemed to be "normal day to day functions of DOC". We
are not sure from this comment what the concern is, but feel that
there is no strong basis for apprehensions over increased public
use, whether that by on foot, horse, mountain bike, or vehicle.
We base our comments on long experience of outdoor recreation,
where it is generally better to rely on the judgment of individuals
rather than on institutions or land occupiers about safety matters.
When individuals occasionally foul-up or make misjudgements then
they pay the price. In those circumstances the Police, assisted
by volunteers from mountain clubs etc., will instigate rescue
action, this being their responsibility rather than DOC's.
Yours faithfully,
Bruce Mason
Trustee
Official Analysis of Public Submissions
| NAME | NATURE | SPECIFIC COMMENTS | LANDCORP / DOC COMMENT |
| Central Otago Tramping Club | Positive | Need to ensure the availability of practicable and unrestricted non-motorised access to the DOC estate through the freehold country. | Existing legal access points (P10) provide good
practical access into the area. Legality issues will be addressed during the title survey. |
| Hore A R (Po 362 Beaumont Station) |
Negative | Concerns regarding the difficultly of maintaining stock proof boundary fencing around that part of the proposed conservation area which lies in the headwaters of the Taieri River. These concerns in detail relate to responsibility for fence maintenance, including access which will be both difficult to gain and expensive to maintain if tracking is involved. | Assuming sheep proof fencing is envisaged, Mr Hore's concerns regarding boundary fencing costs and continuing fence and access track maintenance have some validity, however in order to mitigate the problem it is proposed to select the best available route close to the boundary and to construct fencing designed for snow conditions. Fence maintenance will be the joint responsibility of DOC and the adjoining landowner. |
| In an alternative plan Mr Hore proposes that
the Taieri headwaters be allowed to go into the Beaumont and
Rocklands Pastoral Leases, with a boundary fence being located
on a ridge running through approximately NE - SW from the Rocklands
boundary to the Lammerlaw Tops. In order to protect conservation values, the agreed management would involve no burning, with stocking to be as at present, ie only stock drift from neighbouring blocks. |
This proposal would involve less cost than full
boundary fencing and less continuing maintenance cost due to
location of fencing on a better line. Rocklands/ Halwyn boundary
is fenced with cattle fence (3 barbed wires) only. This fence
type is less prone to snow damage then sheep fence. The proposed tenure would be Pastoral Lease under which it could be difficult to draw up a legally enforceable agreement to stop burning and limit grazing to 'stock drift' only. This proposal is totally unacceptable to DOC and probably the NGO's also. Does not achieve CCL policy of placing conservation area in DOC estate. |
||
| Concerns regarding public access which could result in people disturbing stock and trespassing onto neighbouring land. | DOC proposes to resolve these problems through liaison with adjoining landowners, and better public education. | ||
| McNeish A R & K M (Po 129 The Knobbies) |
Opposed | Land being taken out of the rating base, with costs in lieu of at discretion of DOC. | This is an administrative concern that applies to all DOC land and is not just a problem specific to this tenure exchange. |
| DOC responsibility for weeds, pests. | DOC is responsible for these matters on its own estate. | ||
| DOC responsibility to hold appropriate fire insurance. | |||
| Opposed to creation of 1km fire safety zone around DOC estate due to perceived limitations to land use on surrouding land. Boundary firebreaks are suggested. | A 1km F S Z will be a legal requirement around this DOC estate. | ||
| Has a management plan been drawn up for the proposed DOC estate. | Management plan preparation is a DOC responsibility. | ||
| Questions regarding DOC funding of land purchase and ongoing maintenance. | |||
| Method of sale and tenure of land taken out of DOC estate | |||
| Should be mandatory that neighbours be informed of proposals. | |||
| Suggests the option of purchase of the land by private interests for commercial conservation development. | |||
| Otago Conservation Board | Supportive | ||
| Otago Regional Council | Supportive | Potential erosion risk on lower country will increase where shrub vegetation removal and/or cultivation occurs on Area C, (proposed freehold). | |
| Strategy plans and funding from DOC need to be in place to deal with wilding tree spread on Area B (proposed DOC estate) which includes the Waipori catchment where water harvesting values also need to be preserved. | DOC accept wilding tree control as their responsibility on DOC estate and also make the point that proposed DOC area is outside the seed dispersal zone from adjoining forests. | ||
| Concerns re hieracium spread on DOC estate. | DOC question scientific validity of these concerns. | ||
| Need to ensure establishment and affective maintenance of adequate firebreak tracks around the DOC estate. | DOC accept no liability. | ||
| Otago Tramping & Mountaineering Club | Supportive | It is is accepted that existing access roading is sufficient however concern is expressed re legality of road lines. | Legal access is considered adequate to all DOC estate areas. Foot track development is being considered for the Bowlers Creek area. (P10) Access legality will be addressed during title survey. |
| Location and access to DOC estate needs to be suitably signposted. | Plans for signposting are contained within the proposal. (P12) | ||
| Public Access New Zealand | Supportive | DOC should also negotiate for protection of regenerating forest on the true left bank (Pol96 Castle Dent side) of Bowlers Creek. (P2) | DOC will pursue protection with Castle Dent possibly through tenure exchange. |
| That road reserves adjacent to Bowlers Creek and SH8 should be incorporated into DOC administered reserve under Section 323 of the local Government Act. | |||
| The Bowlers Creek Reserve boundary should incorporate regenerating shrublands and be on a practical line. (P2) | The current proposal accommodates these concerns. (P13) | ||
| Upstream boundary of Bowlers Creek Reserve should abut the legal road off Medwin Road. (P2) | Reserve abuts Medwin Road. (P13) | ||
| Bowlers Creek Reserve should be extended to SH8. | DOC is investigating this proposal. | ||
| Bowlers Creek Reserve should be extended to encompass the gorse covered slope adjacent to SH8, allowing the area to develop native bush. | DOC is investigating this proposal which deserves consideration, however some cost could be involved in reducing gorse competition to enable the native species to dominate. | ||
| Carpark development on roadside reserve adjacent to SH8 and Bowlers Creek. | DOC endorse this suggestion. | ||
| That existing legal access be retained to the midpoint of the Bowlers Creek Reserve through Castle Dent. | A worthwhile suggestion which DOC also endorses. | ||
| Remnant beech stand beside Waipori Stream should be reserved. | Halwyn lessee indicates that this area lies within the marginal strip on the Halwyn side of the stream. DOC also endorse. | ||
| Need to have marginal strips along Waipori River and Deep Creek. | Marginal strip requirements will be addressed during the title survey. | ||
| Legal status of the following formed roads needs
to be confirmed, due to the actual lines being at variance with
the legal lines: from SH8 through freehold to Medwin Road. (Lower section). Medwin Road (upper section within Halwyn). Access to Lammerlaw B Block from the south. |
Issues of roading legality will be addressed during title survey. Lessee accepts that legal roads should remain and that existing roads be legalised in places where they are not on the legal line. | ||
| Public Lands Coalition | Positive | The comments are similar to those of PANZ with the addition of a comment relating to fish and game values which claims that these will be protected by the creation of marginal strips as described in the PANZ section on marginal strips. | Refer Landcorp comment on PANZ submission. |
| South Island High Country Committee (NZFF) | Positive | DOC must co-operate in possum control if the Bowlers Creek Reserve becomes DOC estate. | DOC indicate that they are liable for pest control on DOC estate and as a neighbour will act in a responsible manner. |
Landcorp Property Limited
4 July 1994
Mr B J Mason
Public Access New Zealand
Dear Submitter
RE: REVIEW OF TENURE: HALWYN STATION
I am pleased to advise that the Commissioner of Crown Lands has approved the following proposal:
(1) The surrender of Pol71 Halwyn under Section 145 of the Land Act 1948.
(2) The allocation of approximately 3775 hectares to the Department of Conservation as Conservation Estate.
(3) The classification of approximately 3677 hectares as "farm land" under Section 51 of the Land Act 1948.
(4) The preferential allocation of approximately 3677 hectares of D G and M A Crawford under Section 54 of the Land Act 1948.
From the public submissions received, any concerns were noted and fully discussed by the negotiating parties. Listed below are the concerns which were either shown to have been already accommodated within the original proposal, or resulted in changes which were included in the final tenure review agreement.
A submission proposing conditional grazing on portions of the DOC Estate was fully considered but was unacceptable to the negotiating parties.
Thank you for your submission, your comments were of assistance in reaching this decision.
Yours faithfully
G W Heward
for Manager, Alexandra
LANDCORP PROPERTY LIMITED