This page created 1 July 2002 / last modified 9 July 2002
Po 203
Lake Wanaka
Otago Land District
Tenure review not approved by Commissioner of Crown Lands
[ Note: official papers have been captured by optical character
recognition - although spell-checked, there may be typo errors]
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CROWN PASTORAL LAND ACT 1998
WEST WANAKA TENURE REVIEW
NOTICE OF PRELIMINARY PROPOSAL
Notice is given under Section 43 of the Crown Pastoral Land Act 1998 by the Commissioner of Crown Lands that he has put a preliminary proposal for tenure review to Grant Clifford Cochrane and Janet Lesley Cochrane, lessees of West Wanaka Pastoral Lease.
Legal description of land concerned:
Pastoral lease land:
Run 762 Matukituki, Mid and Lower Wanaka and Motatapu Survey Districts contained in Land Registry Folio Reference 386/129 (Otago Registry) comprising 7162.9357 ha.
Conservation area:
Section 1 Block XVIII Lower Wanaka Survey District comprising 1.5479 ha.
General description of proposal:
(1) 1189 ha (approximately) to be designated as land to be restored to full Crown ownership and control comprising:
(2) 5974 ha (approximately) to be designated as land to be disposed of by freehold disposal to the holder under Section 35 (3) of the CPL Act subject to Part IVA of the Conservation Act 1987, Section 11 of the Crown Minerals Act 1991 and the following protective mechanisms under Section 40 (1) (b) CPL Act:
(a) Conservation covenants under Section 77 Reserves Act 1977 over eight separate areas totalling 1067 ha under Section 40 (2) (a) CPL Act 1998.
(b) Easement to provide public foot access only to conservation areas over two routes under Section 40 (2) (c) CPL Act 1998.
(c) Easement to provide public foot, horse and non-motorised vehicle access on three routes to existing and proposed conservation areas under Section 40 (2) (c) CPL Act 1998.
(d) Easement to provide public foot, horse and vehicle access over one route from the end of the legal road at West Wanaka to Lake Wanaka under Section 40 (2) (c) CPL Act 1998.
(e) Easement to provide public foot access with guns and dogs over two routes to wildlife management areas under Section 40 (2) (c) CPL Act 1998.
(f) Easement to provide access for conservation management purposes to proposed conservation areas under Section 40 (2) (a) CPL Act 1998.
(g) Easement to provide for Fish and Game management purposes to proposed wildlife management areas under Section 40 (2) (a) CPL Act 1998.
(3) 1 ha (approximately) to be designated as land to
be disposed of by way of exchange
with other land designated by the proposal under the Conservation
Act 1987 under Section 37 (1)
(c). The land is to be exchanged with land to be restored to full
Crown ownership and control as part of this proposal.
(4) 0.5479 ha (approximately) to be designated as land to remain conservation area under Section 37 (1) (a) CPL Act 1998.
Further information including a copy of the plan and covenant and easement documents is available on request from the Commissioner's agent at the following address:
The Manger DTZ New Zealand
Limited Land Resources Division
P O Box 27
ALEXANDRA
Phone (03) 448-6935
Fax (03) 448-9099
Submissions:
Any person or organisation may send a written submission on the above proposal to the Commissioner of Crown Lands, C/- DTZ New Zealand Limited at the above address.
Closing date of submissions:
Written submissions must be received no later than 11 June 2002.
SUMMARY OF THE PRELIMINARY PROPOSAL
FOR TENURE REVIEW OF WEST WANAKA PASTORAL LEASE
UNDER THE CROWN PASTORAL LAND ACT 1998
INDEX:
(1) Details of land under consideration.
(2) Proposal.
(3) Description of proposed designations.
(4) The proposal in relation to the objects of Part 2 CPL Act.
Appendices:
Appendix 1: Plan showing proposed designations
Appendix 2: Plan of conservation land
showing proposed designations
[Appendices 3 - 10 not provided on this site]
Appendix 3: Conservation covenant document, Area e.
Appendix 4: Conservation covenant document for Areas a, b, c,
d, f,- h.
Appendix 5: Fish and Game conservation covenant document for Area
g.
Appendix 6: ROW easement document for public foot, horse and non-motorised
vehicle access and for management purposes over routes E - R -
L - N - F, E - C-L-N-F and N-M.
Appendix 7: ROW easement document for public foot access for routes
K - L, B - C.
Appendix 8: ROW easement documents (3) for access for management
purposes for routes A - O, S - C, L - K.
Appendix 9: ROW easement documents for public access on foot with
guns and dogs for routes I-J and G-H.
Appendix 10: ROW easement document for public foot, horse and
motorised vehicle access for route D - E.
Details of land under consideration:
1.1 Pastoral lease:
Lease Name: West Wanaka
Lessee: Grant Clifford Cochrane and Janet Lesley Cochrane
Location: Wanaka
Land Registry Folio Ref: 386/129 (Otago Registry)
Legal Description: Run 762 Matukituki, Mid and Lower Wanaka and Motatapu Survey Districts
Area: 7162.9357 hectares
Local Authority: Queenstown-Lakes District Council
Term of Lease: 33 years from 1 July 1990
1.2 Conservation area:
Legal Description: Section 1 Block XVIII Lower Wanaka Survey District.
Area: 1.5479 hectares
Status: Stewardship area managed under Section 62 Conservation Act.
(1) Proposal:
2.1 To be designated as land to be restored to or retained in full Crown ownership and control:
(a) As conservation area, (under Section 35 (2)(a)(i) CPL Act):
A total often areas (the areas outlined green and numbered 3.1.1, 3.1.2, 3.1.3, 3.1.4, 3.1.8, 3.1.9, 3.1.10, 3.1.11, 3.1.12, 3.1.13 on plan Appendix 1 ) having a total area of 1024 ha.
(b) As reserve for the purpose specified in the proposal (under Section 35 (2)(a)(ii) CPL Act):
A total of three areas (the areas outlined green and numbered 3.1.5,3.1. 6, 3.1. 7 on plan Appendix 1) having a total area of 165 ha.
Purpose:
Government purpose reserve under Section 22 (2) of the Reserves Act 1977 to be administered as a wildlife management area.
2.2 To be designated as land to be disposed of by freehold disposal to the holder (under Section 35 (3) CPL Act) subject to protective mechanisms and designations Section 40 (1) (b):
Area: 5974 ha subject to survey (shown outlined pink on plan in Appendix 1).
Protective mechanisms: (Section 40 (2) (a) and Section 40 (2) (c) CPL Act).
(a) Conservation covenants under Section 77 Reserves Act 1977 over eight separate areas (shown coloured yellow and numbered (a) to (h) on plan Appendix 1) totalling 1067 ha.
(b) Easements to provide public foot access (shown marked with continuous dots and lettered B -C and K- L on plan Appendix 1) as per document in
Appendix 7.(c) Easement to provide public foot, horse and vehicle access (shown marked with continuous dots and lettered D - E on plan Appendix 1) as per document in Appendix 10.
(d) Easement to provide public foot, bicycle and horse access (shown marked with continuous dots and lettered E - R - F, N- M and E - O - F on plan Appendix 1) as per document in Appendix 6.
(e) Access with guns and dogs to be permitted over G - H and I - J.
Other qualified designations:
(f) Easements (Section 40 (2) (b) CPL Act) for management purposes (shown marked with continuous dots and lettered A - O, S - C, K - L, E - O - F and N - M on plan Appendix 1) as per documents in Appendix 6 and 8.
2.3 Land to remain as conservation area under Section 37 (i) (a):
Area: 0.5479 ha (shown marked in orange on plan Appendix 2).
2.4 Land to be disposed of by way of exchange with other land designated by the proposal under the Conservation Act 1987 under Section 37 (i) (c):
Area: 1 ha (shown marked blue on plan Appendix 2).
To be exchanged in part with land to be restored to full Crown ownership and control as part of this proposal.
(2) Description of Proposed Designations:
3.1 Land to be restored to or retained in full Crown ownership and control:
3.1.1 Regenerating Forest South of the Bent Burn:
(Shown marked green and numbered 3.1.1 on plan Appendix 1).
The area comprises two lobes of regenerating beech forest, Halls totara and hardwood shrubland.
The area is characterised by the following significant inherent values:
New Zealand pigeon (kereru) frequent these areas. This species is a Category B threatened species (Molloy and Davis 1994).
The Matukituki forest remnants have been described as Sites of Special Wildlife Interest of a moderate ranking by former Wildlife Service.
3.1.2 "Johns Paddock" and Adjoining Land North of Round Hill Hut:
(Shown marked green and numbered 3.1.2 on plan Appendix 1).
This is an area of tussock and sub-alpine shrubland known as "Johns Paddock". Additional areas on the western end consist of regenerating beech forest, Halls totara and mixed hardwood shrubland.
The area is characterised by the following significant inherent values:
New Zealand pigeon (kereru) frequent these areas. This species is a Category B threatened species (Molloy and Davis 1994).
The Matukituki forest remnants have been described as Sites of Special Wildlife Interest of a moderate ranking by former Wildlife Service.
As part of larger tracts of conservation land in the adjoining Mount Alta and West Wanaka conservation areas the area represents an exceptional setting for outdoor recreational activities including tramping and hunting.
3.1.3 Bush behind Round Hill Hut:
(Shown marked green and numbered 3.1.3 on plan Appendix 1).
The land adjoins forest covered conservation lands. Much of the area is regenerating beech with regenerating hardwood shrublands.
The area is characterised by the following significant inherent values:
New Zealand pigeon (kereru) frequent these areas. This species is a Category B threatened species (Molloy and Davis 1994).
As part of larger tracts of conservation land in the adjoining Mount Alta and West Wanaka conservation areas the area represents an exceptional setting for outdoor recreational activities including tramping and hunting.
3.1.4 Tongue Spur bush and tussocklands above retirement fence:
(Shown marked green and numbered 3.1.4 on plan Appendix 1).
The area comprises an altitudinal sequence from the Matukituki Valley floor to the lower boundary of Mount Alta conservation area, at ~1100m altitude. The proposal includes a band of tussocklands below above an existing boundary fence with the conservation area.
The area comprises intact tall tussock lands, sub-alpine shrublands, native and regenerating beech and hardwood forest and a lower fan that includes Olearia trees.
O. hectori is a Category "A" threatened plant species (Molloy & Davis 1994) meaning that it has the highest priority ranking for conservation action. Rogers (1996) noted that reservation proposals for O. hector) must consider the need for large areas to span the spatial and temporal patterns of landscape disturbance that enable the establishment of new populations. For this reason, protecting this species as part of an intact altitudinal sequence is seen as being particularly important. Protection of O. hector) is also important in order to sustain insect species which depend exclusively on this species for their survival.
This proposal represents a rare opportunity to protect an altitudinal sequence of native vegetation and associated fauna. The sequence encompasses an endangered tree species on a valley floor, a fan system, a montane beech forest, sub-alpine shrublands, alpine tussock grasslands and high alpine vegetation close to the permanent snow line in the vicinity of Buchanan Peaks.
O. hectori is an important host for native insects which depend on this host for their survival. One moth species which breeds on this plant, is possibly endemic to the Matukituki Valley. O. hector) is thought to have once been widespread in non forested areas - its distribution is now extremely scattered.
3.1.5 North Matukituki wetland:
(Shown marked green and numbered 3.1.5 on plan Appendix 1).
The wetland which covers approximately 15 ha is an important wildlife habitat and is a remnant of a large wetland system that once covered much of the Matukituki Valley. The hydrology appears to be essentially controlled by natural processes, despite substantial modification to surrounding lands. It contains a significant component of native vegetation and a great diversity of insect fauna.
The land is characterised by areas that have the following significant inherent values:
The wetland is an attractive component of the Matukituki Valley landscape and provides an insight into the character of the area prior to widespread drainage of river flats for pastoral use.
This series of wetlands are listed in the WERI inventory as a site of local significance.
Collectively with the South and Mid Matukituki wetlands these areas comprise the largest wetland in the Wanaka Ecological district. There is a long history of wetland modification in New Zealand. Only 8% of pre European lowland wetlands now remain. Wetlands now occupy less than 2% of the total land area of New Zealand. New Zealand is a signatory of the RAMSAR convention and has an obligation to protect remaining viable wetlands.
The wetland is a breeding and feeding environment for a host of native and introduced bird life. The presence of moulting paradise shelduck gives the area a moderate to high ranking under criteria used by the previous Wildlife Service in their New Zealand Wildlife Service National Habitat Register.
In conjunction with the South and Mid Matukituki Wetlands the diversity of native bird, insects, aquatic and plant life qualifies the wetland as having regional conservation significance. Despite being physically separated, the areas were once part of one large wetland complex. Considerable biological interaction (eg movement of birds) continues to occur between the three wetlands proposed for protection.
The wetland is well known as a freshwater fishery and for gamebird hunting.
3.1.6 Mid Matukituki wetland:
(Shown marked green and numbered 3.1.6 on plan Appendix 1).
The wetland covers approximately 50 ha, is an important wildlife habitat and is a remnant of a large wetland system that once covered much of the Matukituki Valley. The hydrology appears to be essentially controlled by natural processes, despite substantial modification to surrounding lands. It contains a significant component of native vegetation and a great diversity of insect fauna.
The land is characterised by areas that have similar significant inherent values as described for area 3.1.5.
3.1. 7 South Matukituki Wetland:
(Shown marked green and numbered 3.1. 7 on plan Appendix 1).
The wetland which covers approximately 125 ha is an important wildlife habitat is a remnant of a large wetland system that once covered much of the Matukituki Valley. The hydrology of this area appears to be essentially controlled by natural processes, despite substantial modification to surrounding lands. The wetland contains a significant component of native vegetation and a great diversity of insect fauna.
The land is characterised by areas that have similar significant inherent values as described for area 3.1.5.
3.1.8 O. hector) shrubland remnant immediately to the north of the south Matukituki wetland:
(Shown marked green and numbered 3.1.8 on plan Appendix 1).
This is an alluvial fan containing eight mature O. hectori trees surrounded by grazed pasture.
The land is characterised by areas that have the following significant inherent values:
O. hector) is a Category "A" threatened plant species (Molloy & Davis 1994) meaning that it has the highest priority ranking for conservation action. Rogers (1996) noted that reservation proposals for O. hector) must consider the need for large areas to span the spatial and temporal patterns of landscape disturbance that enable the establishment of new populations. For this reason, protecting this species as part of an intact altitudinal sequence is seen as being particularly important. Protection of O. hector) is also important in order to sustain insect species that depend exclusively on this species for their survival.
One moth species which breeds on this plant, is possibly endemic to the Matukituki Valley.
3.1.9 Faces above West Wanaka Lagoons:
(Shown marked green and numbered 3.1.9 on plan Appendix 1).
This area contains approximately 55 ha and comprises steep bluffy faces at the south end of the South Matukituki Wetland. The area is vegetated by diverse shrublands containing 0. hector).
The land is characterised by areas that have the following significant inherent values:
The mid to lower reached of the Matukituki Valley have been extensively modified through Polynesian burning and more recently by pastoral activities.
This proposal comprises an attractive area of essentially regenerating native vegetation that provides an attractive natural backdrop to wetlands proposed for protection under proposal (3.1. 7) and to the intensively farmed Matukituki Flats.
O. hector) is a Category "A" threatened plant species (Molloy & Davis 1994) meaning that it has the highest priority ranking for conservation action. Rogers (1996) noted that reservation proposals for 0. hector) must consider the need for large areas to span the spatial and temporal patterns of landscape disturbance that enable the establishment of new populations.
It is possible that the 0. hector) on the bluffs and faces of this area is the only viable population of this endangered species in the Matukituki Valley.
There are a number of possible explanations for this; the most likely being that it is one of the few areas where disturbance is predominantly from natural events ie rockfall, slips and perhaps occasional fire. The 0. hector) present on the adjacent fan are one of the better examples of mature trees in the valley.
The balance of the shrublands are a valuable example of a vegetation type which would have been common in the valley prior to human disturbance.
The protection of a continuous area comprising the West Wanaka lagoons and series of bluffs and shrub covered faces will comprise an important tract of protected land where natural processes will dominate. This is particularly important for hydrological processes in the wetlands.
O. hector), O. odorata and Gingidia montana are host to a range of unique, and in some cases, rare insect life. This is not a typical site for 0. hector), the presence of juvenile plants makes it a particularly important habitat for protection.
3.1.10 West Wanaka Bridge Bluff Bush/Shrublands:
(Shown marked green and numbered 3.1. 10 on plan Appendix 1).
This area comprises approximately 40 ha, lies to the west of the West Wanaka road after crossing the Matukituki Bridge and contains important botanical values. In addition to species described as being present in shrublands elsewhere on the property, the area contains two mature matai trees (male and female), Arthropodium candidium, (a native lily), O. hector), O. fragrantissima and mountain beech along the river margins.
The land is characterised by areas that have the following significant inherent values:
The mid to lower reached of the Matukituki Valley have been extensively modified through Polynesian burning and more recently by pastoral activities. This proposal comprises an area of native bush that provides an attractive natural backdrop to the lower reaches of the Matukituki River.
The area contains O. hectori which is a Category"A" threatened plant species (Molloy & Davis 1994) meaning that it has the highest priority ranking for conservation action. Rogers (1996) noted that reservation proposals for O. hector) must consider the need for large areas to span the spatial and temporal patterns of landscape disturbance that enable the establishment of new populations.
O. fragrantissima is a Category B threatened species which makes it a second priority for conservation action.
Arthropodium candidium is described as being scattered but seldom common.
The two matai trees are probably the eastern most of their kind in Central Otago and constitute evidence that this species was once more widespread. These two trees, a single tree near the mouth of the Minaret Burn and two trees at Diamond Lake are probably the only matai trees in the Lakes Ecological Region. Formal protection is therefore extremely important, as is the retention of areas that may provide a suitable habitat for younger replacement trees to establish.
3.1.11 Lakeside conservation area between Station Creek and the Rumbling Burn:
(Shown marked green and numbered 3.1.11 on plan Appendix 1).
The area comprises approximately 25 ha and extends for approximately 3 km along the shores of Lake Wanaka above an existing marginal strip between the mouths of Station Creek and the Rumbling Burn. The upper boundary is an existing farm track.
Vegetation comprises a mix of native forest that includes southern Rata.
The land is characterised by areas that have the following significant inherent values:
This area represents one of the few parts of the Lake Wanaka shoreline which has been largely protected from fire and grazing. The forest/shrubland remnants provide an insight into the character of the area prior to an increase in the frequency of fire associated with Maori and European settlement. The remnants add to the areas outstanding landscape and contribute to the setting for lakeside recreation.
Southern rata is near its eastern distributional limit, being primarily confined to wetter more temperate locations near to and West of the Main Divide.
3.1.12 Lake Faces - Rumbling Burn to Minaret Burn:
(Shown marked green and numbered 3.1.12 on plan Appendix 1).
The area comprises approximately 200 ha. The steep lakeside faces contain one of the most important shrubland/forest remnants in the Lakes Ecological Region. A grove of six mature kahikatea trees and a single large matai tree are present in a damp gully.
The upper reaches of these faces are in an advanced stage of regeneration towards a mixed mountain/silver beech, kanuka, manuka, inaka shrubland/forest.
The land is characterised by areas that have the following significant inherent values:
The forest remnants are of exceptional scenic value given their proximity to the shores of Lake Wanaka. Forested backdrops provide a natural recreational setting unsurpassed elsewhere on Lakes Wanaka, Hawea or Wakatipu.
The presence of large podocarps growing close to the shores of Lake Wanaka provides some insight into the area's character prior to Polynesian fires and is highly significant from a scientific perspective. The grove of Kahikatea probably represents the eastern limit for this species in inland Otago. Other pockets of Kahikatea in the area were milled last century.
Gingidia montana plants which are present on bluffs near the mouth of the Minaret Burn are host to a range of unique, and in some cases, rare insect life.
3.1.13 Faces From Cox Bush to North Branch of the Rumbling Burn:
(Shown marked green and numbered 3.1. 13 on plan Appendix 1).
The area contains approximately 430 ha and comprises steep faces lying between Cox Bush and the North Branch of the Rumbling Burn. Much of the area is vegetated in native shrublands and forest. Bracken fern dominates the section between Cox Bush and the North Branch of the Rumbling Burn.
Shrublands and bracken merge at approximately 1000 m.a.s.1. into a narrow band of semi-natural grassland with some remnant narrow-leaved snow tussock and native short tussock species.
The land is characterised by areas that have the following significant inherent values:
Cox Bush and environs support a sequence of native vegetation that extends from the lake shore to the summit of Buchanan Peaks.
The area is an important component of an outstanding landscape and contributes to the setting for lakeside recreation.
This proposal also stands to create a valuable biological linkage of protected lands extending from the shores of Lake Wanaka to existing protected high altitude lands in the Mount Alta conservation area.
3.2 Land designated to be disposed of by freehold disposal to the holder subject to protective mechanisms (shown marked pink on diagram in Appendix 1):
The total area comprises approximately 5974 ha and contains all the developed land within the lease plus a significant area of semi modified tussock and bracken covered land.
Of the total area 831 ha approximately comprises Class VII land (land with severe limitations for pastoral use classified under the National Water and Soil Conservation Authority Land Use Capability Classes). Most within this class is midaltitude bracken fern with Dunstan and Arrow/Dunstan soils with snow tussock and blue tussock at higher altitudes to 1000 m.a.s.1. Some areas, particularly those least suited to grazing, will be protected by way of conservation covenants.
Cover comprises 590 ha crop and permanent pasture, 195 ha oversown and topdressed flats and fans, 2195 ha oversown and topdressed hill, and 2994 ha of unimproved fern and tussock land.
Protective Mechanisms:
The land to be disposed of on freehold title will be subject to the following protective mechanisms:
3.2.1 Conservation covenants (shown marked yellow on plan Appendix 1):
(a) Narrow Spur bush remnants (shown marked "a" on plan Appendix 1):
It is proposed that approximately 60 hectares be covenanted for the purpose of preserving the beech forest remnants on the northern and southern sides of Narrow Spur (Matukituki Valley). The area encompasses two relatively large forest remnants.
A conservation covenant is considered an appropriate form of protection as the area is quite small, management issues are simple and the area has limited recreational value.
The land is characterised by areas that have the following significant inherent values:
Beech remnants above the Matukituki Flats are evidence that forests once extended well to the east of the large tracts of forest on the flanks of the Main Divide. They are an important natural component of the landscape in the approach to Mount Aspiring National Park.
This area experiences a warmer and drier climate than forests to the west and therefore represents a distinct habitat for bird life and insect fauna.
(b) Beech forest remnant in Unnamed Creek 1.2 km south of Narrow Spur (shown marked "b" on plan Appendix 1):
It is proposed that an area of approximately 5 ha of silver beech forest remnant located in a narrow gully be covenanted.
A conservation covenant is considered an appropriate form of protection as the area is quite small, management issues are simple and the area has limited recreational value.
The land is characterised by areas that have the following significant inherent values:
This catchment lies above an area containing an important stand of O. hector) recommended for protection as a conservation area. The proposed protection is in recognition that the survival of O. hector) may in part depend on the retention of natural processes up stream.
Beech remnants above the Matukituki Flats are evidence that forests once extended well to the east of the large tracts of forest on the flanks of the Main Divide. They are an important natural component of the landscape in the approach to Mount Aspiring National Park.
(c) Faces above South Matukituki wetland including Matagouri Fan on Matukituki Flats (shown marked "c" on plan Appendix 1):
It is proposed that an area of approximately 290 ha of diverse shrublands interspersed with areas of exotic grasslands and an alluvial fan at the base of catchment to the west of Buchanan Peaks containing area of mature matagouri be covenanted.
A conservation covenant is considered an appropriate form of protection in that management issues are simple and the area has limited recreational value.
The land is characterised by areas that have the following significant inherent values:
In conjunction with lands described in proposal (3.1.9J (faces above West Wanaka Lagoons proposed for incorporation into the conservation estate) and lands within the Mount Alta conservation area, this proposal will create an altitudinal sequence of protected lands extending from valley floor to the nival zone.
Extensive shrublands provide an attractive natural backdrop to the Matukituki valley that is visible from the Wanaka - Mount Aspiring Road and Treble Cone Ski Field.
(d) Lookout Hill shrublands (shown marked "d " on plan Appendix 1):
It is proposed that an area of approximately 110 ha on the southern flanks of Lookout Hill that has regenerated into a diverse mixed shrubland be covenanted.
A conservation covenant is considered an appropriate form of protection in that management issues are simple and the area has limited recreational value.
The land is characterised by areas that have the following significant inherent values:
These shrublands are almost entirely native in composition and are one of the largest mixed hardwood shrubland/remnants on the property. The area is highly visible from the lower Matukituki Valley, the West Wanaka Road and parts of Lake Wanaka.
(e) Station Creek riparian protection (shown marked "e" on plan Appendix 1):
It is proposed that a 20 metre margin on each side of Station Creek between its mouth at Lake Wanaka and the upper boundary of the property be covenanted to protect the riparian vegetation and a large population of koaro.
A conservation covenant is considered an appropriate form of protection in that the area is quite small, management issues are simple and the area has limited recreational value.
The land is characterised by areas that have the following significant inherent values:
Koaro of similar size or quantity were not found elsewhere on the property. Koaro is one of four native fish species on the threatened species register; being a Category C species (third priority for protection - Molloy and Davis 1994). Retention of healthy riparian vegetation is necessary for this species to thrive.
(f) Lakeside area at north end of Smiths Bay (shown marked 't' on plan Appendix 1):
It is proposed that an area of approximately 10 ha lying immediately above an existing lakeside marginal strip and approximately 800 metres north of Smiths Bay be covenanted. Vegetation comprises a mix of native species dominated by Kanuka.
A conservation covenant is considered an appropriate form of protection in that the area is quite small, management issues are simple and the area has limited recreational value.
The land is characterised by areas that have the following significant inherent values:
This area represents one of the few parts of the Lake Wanaka shoreline which has been largely protected from fire and grazing. The forest/shrubland remnants provide an insight into the character of the area prior to an increase in the frequency of fire associated with Maori and European settlement. The remnants add to the areas outstanding landscape and contribute to the setting for lakeside recreation.
(g) Flats above Round Hill (shown coloured yellow and marked "g" on plan Appendix 1):
It is proposed that an area of approximately 200 ha be covenanted to protect the area from drainage and development.
A conservation covenant is considered appropriate as Fish and Game Council advice that a continuation of the current situation is desirable.
The land has significant inherent values in that it is in a reasonably natural state being mainly tall tussock wetland with numerous ponds.
The area is a breeding and feeding area for waterfowl. Canadian geese have been observed nesting in this area.
3.2.2 Easements:
(All easements are marked as continuous dots on plan in Appendix 1).
(B - C) Round Hill Spur - public access (shown marked "B - C" on diagram in Appendix 1):
It is proposed that an easement be created for public foot access over a farm track up Round Hill Spur to the boundary of land proposed as conservation area. This route is accessed from the marginal strip on an unnamed stream that enters the Matukituki Valley at the base of Round Hill Spur.
This route provides direct access to lands described in proposal (3.1.4) and beyond to the West Wanaka conservation area. Competent parties can easily gain access to the easement from the Wanaka - Mount Aspiring road when river conditions are average to low.
This route provides an important linkage to reviewable land on the western slopes of the Buchanan Mountains. From the route spectacular views of the Matukituki Valley and high peaks of Mount Aspiring National Park and surrounds can be enjoyed.
(D - E) Smiths Bay - public access (shown marked "D - E" on plan Appendix 1, Appendix II):
It is proposed that an easement for public foot, horse and vehicle access be created over a short stretch of road which links the West Wanaka Road end to lakeside marginal strip at Smiths Bay.
This proposal is an important access route through reviewable land.
The road is currently perceived as legal access to Smith's Bay and receives a quite high level of use. Smith's Bay is a tranquil part of the lake. Mature willow and poplar trees on the foreshore provide a pleasant picnic site.
(R- F) West Wanaka Station to Minaret Burn - public access (shown marked "R - F" on diagram in Appendix 1):
South of Colquhouns Flat most of this formed track appears to lie on legal road line. It is proposed that legal public foot, mountain bike and horse access be secured over sections which do not correspond with the legal road line. Beyond Colquhouns Flat the easement corresponds with a formed track which provides access to the Minaret Burn and beyond to the boundary of the Mount Alta conservation area.
This proposal is an important access route through reviewable land. From the route spectacular view of Lake Wanaka and surrounding lands can be enjoyed.
This route provides access to proposed conservation lands at Cox Bush, between the Rumbling and Minaret Burns and on the shores of Lake Wanaka. The route also provides access to existing conservation lands that previously have had no practical public access (Mount Alta conservation area at the head of the Minaret Burn). This easement route stands to become a popular route through the lower Minaret Burn and beyond to spectacular alpine country at the head of this catchment.
This route provides access to the Rumbling Burn and the Minaret Burn. From these valleys there a multiple possibilities for extended through routes (for example to the Matukituki Valley and out via Round Hill Spur (B - C)).
G - H) Public access from Matukituki River to mid Matukituki wetland (shown marked G - H on plan Appendix 1, Appendix II)
It is proposed that legal public foot access is secured to this wetland which is proposed for Reserve status (3.1.6). Guns and dogs to be permitted subject to holding a hunting permit for the mid Matukituki wetland. The easement includes all land Iying between the marginal strip and the wetland.
Access is required as the wetland is used for game bird hunting and fishing.
(J- I) Access from Matukituki River to South Matukituki wetland (shown marked "J- I" on diagram in Appendix 1, Appendix II):
It is proposed that legal public foot access be secured to this wetland which is proposed for Reserve status (3.1.7 in this proposal). Guns and dogs to be permitted subject to holding a hunting permit for the South Matukituki wetland. The easement includes all land lying between the marginal strip and the wetland.
Access is required as the area is used for game bird hunting and fishing.
(K- L) Access - Upper Rumbling Burn (West Wanaka conservation area) via Daniels Spur (shown marked "K- L" on diagram in Appendix 1):
It is proposed that legal public foot access be secured over that part of the track which lies between land described in proposal 3.1.11 and the Mount Alta conservation area. The lower part of this track is within proposed conservation lands. This farm track links with the main farm track to the Minaret Burn near the mouth of the Rumbling Burn and climbs to the Mount Alta conservation area boundary.
This proposal is an important access route through reviewable land to the Mount Alta conservation area. Stunning views of Lake Wanaka and surrounds can be enjoyed from the proposed easement. The route also provides practical access into the Rumbling Burn and on to Mount Alta.
There are several possibilities for entering the Mount Alta conservation area via this route and exiting via alternatives; for example Round Hill Spur (A - B).
(N-M) Public access - Mouth of Minaret Burn from proposed Minaret Burn access easement (shown marked "N- M" on diagram in Appendix 1):
It is proposed that legal public foot access be secured over that part of the formed track (approximately 500 metres) which lies outside of the proposed conservation area 3.1.12. This links the track access within the proposed conservation area with easement E - R -F.
The route itself is a valuable recreational opportunity as it affords magnificent views of the lower Minaret Burn, Lake Wanaka and surrounds.
Easements for conservation management purposes (shown marked with continuous dots on plan Appendix 1).
(A O) Conservation and Fish and Game management access -West Wanaka Road end to Round Hill Spur (shown marked A - O on plan Appendix 1):
It is proposed that an easement provide for foot and vehicle access for conservation and Fish and Game management purposes over the farm road up the Matukituki Valley to Round Hill Spur Hut. This provides practical access for management purposes on existing farm track to all the proposed conservation and covenant areas up the Matukituki.
(S - C) Conservation management access - Round Hill Spur (shown marked "S- C" on plan Appendix 1):
It is proposed that an easement provide for vehicle access for management purposes over the existing farm track to proposed conservation area 3.1.4 This also provides a logical route into the Mount Alta conservation area and ensures future access for such activities as weed and pest control.
(L - K) Conservation management access - Daniel's Spur (shown marked on plan Appendix 1):
It is proposed that an easement provide for vehicle access for management purposes over this route. This provides a logical route into the Rumbling Burn for such activities as weed and pest control.
(E-O- F&N-M) Conservation management access - Main track to Minaret Burn from road end at West Wanaka Homestead (shown "E - O - F and N - M" on plan in Appendix 1):
It is proposed that an easement provide for vehicle access for management purposes over this route being the main vehicle access track to the Minaret Burn. This provides a logical route into the Mount Alta conservation area ensuring access for such activities as weed and pest control.
3.3 Land to remain as conservation area (shown marked orange on plan in Schedule B):
It is proposed that of the 1.S480 ha of conservation land which is included in this review, a 0.5480 ha portion will remain as conservation land under Section 37 (i) (a) CPL Act.
This land should remain as conservation area in order to provide for public car parking, access to a boat ramp on the Matukituki River and to retain the option for legislation of the West Wanaka Road in the future.
3.4 Land Jo be disposed of by way of exchange with other land designated by the proposal (shown marked blue on Plan Schedule B):
It is proposed that approximately I ha of land currently under grazing licence (LS177) to G C and J L Cochrane, be disposed of by way of exchange to G C and J L Cochrane under Section 37 (i) (c) CPL Act.
The land designated for disposal has no conservation or recreation values warranting retention in Crown ownership. There is an existing marginal strip surveyed on the adjacent section of the Matukituki River. DoC's conservation management strategy states that the area should be retained to provide access to the Matukituki boat ramp. Only a small portion of the area is used for that purpose.
(4) The Proposal in relation to the Objects of Part 2 CPL Act:
The objects of Part 2 of the CPL Act are set out in Section 24 of the Crown Pastoral Land Act 1998 viz:
24. Objects of Part 2 - The objects of this part are:
(a) To:
(i) Promote the management of reviewable land in a way is that is ecologically sustainable:
(ii) Subject to subparagraph (i), enable reviewable land capable of economic use to be freedom the management constraints (direct and indirect) resulting from its tenure under reviewable instrument; and(b) To enable the protection of significant inherent values of reviewable land:
(i) By the creation of protective mechanisms; or (preferably)
(ii) By the restoration of land to full Crown ownership and control; and
(c) Subject to paragraphs (a) and (b), to make easier:
(i) The securing of public access to and enjoyment of reviewable land; and
(ii) The freehold disposal of reviewable land.
This proposal promotes the management of the land in a way that is ecologically sustainable by:
- Designating land as conservation area where the ecological sustainability of continuing the existing use of extensive pastoral farming is, at best, questionable. Nature conservation is considered an ecologically sustainable use of the land designated for this purpose as nutrient and energy flows are likely to be in balance under this use.
- The large majority of the land proposed to be designated for disposal on freehold title is of a quality and nature that economically justifies the development of specialist pastures and nutrient replenishment under its current economic use. Where this does not apply is a relatively small area.
- Freeing land capable of economic use from the management constraints of its current tenure will allow more ecologically sustainable mixes of land use to evolve.
- Provides for a more focussed and specialist management of the respective designated areas in accordance with their dominant use.
The proposal enables reviewable land that is capable of economic use to be freed from the management constraints resulting from its tenure by disposal on freehold title. The economic use is pastoral farming.
This proposal fits the objects of the Act by enabling the protection of significant inherent values identified within the reviewable land by the restoration of the land to Crown ownership and control. The significant inherent values identified that are within the land proposed for disposal on freehold title will be protected by conservation covenants. The principal significant inherent value within these areas is the natural landscape or alternatively they are relatively small discreet areas containing important native plant communities. Also public recreation is not considered an important factor within these areas. Consequently, it is considered that conservation covenants are an appropriate mechanism for protection at these locations.
Public access to and enjoyment of the land is provided for in the proposal by the creation of public foot, horse and non motorised vehicle access easements through the proposed freehold to all those areas considered of public interest for recreation. In addition public vehicle access is provided to Lake Wanaka from the existing public road and access with guns and dogs to proposed wildlife management areas.
APPENDIX 1:
Plan showing proposed designations.
APPENDIX 2:
Plan of conservation land showing proposed designations.
CONSERVATION
RESOURCES REPORT
FOR THE COMMISSIONER OF CROWN LANDS
WEST WANAKA PASTORAL LEASE
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PART 1
1.1 INTRODUCTION
PART 2
CONSERVATION RESOURCE DESCRIPTION AND ASSESSMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE
2.1. LANDSCAPE
2.2 LANDFORMS AND GEOLOGY
(a) Topography and Landforms
(b) Geology
(c) Soils
(d) Hydrology2.3 CLIMATE
2.4 VEGETATION
2.5 FAUNA
(a) Invenebrate Values
(b) Venebrate Values
(c) Aquatic Fauna
2.6 HISTORIC VALUES2.7 PUBLIC RECREATION
PART 3
CONSULTATION AND DISTRICT PLANS
3.1 CONSULTATION
3.2 DISTRICT PLAN (MATTERS OF NATIONAL IMPORTANCE)
3.3 CONSERVANCY CONSERVATION MANAGEMENT STRATEGY
PART 4
JUSTIFICATION AND RECOMMENDATIONS
4.1 INTRODUCTORY STATEMENT
4.2 AREAS TO BE FULLY RESTORED TO CROWN OWNERSHIP
4.3 AREAS TO BE COVENANTED
4.4 ACCESS ARRANGEMENTS
4.5.2: NGO CONCERNS
PART 5
ATTACHMENTS
1. REFERENCES
2. ILLUSTRATIVE MAPS
PART 1
1.1 INTRODUCTION
The lessee of West Wanaka pastoral lease has applied to the Commissioner of Crown Lands for a review of the property's pastoral lease tenure.
West Wanaka pastoral lease (7163 hectares) is located 23 km north-west of Wanaka township. The property lies on the lower flanks of the Buchanan Mountains (local name for mountains containing Buchanan Peaks and Mt Alta) and is bounded by Lake Wanaka on the east and the Matukituki River to the south and west. The current boundaries date back to 1966 when 11,372 ha of land above 1000 m.a.s.l was surrendered under a Catchment Board run plan. This plan involved the erection of 40 km of retirement fencing. Surrendered land now comprises the West Wanaka Conservation Area The extent of the property is depicted on Map 1 (appendix).
A small 13.78 ha freehold block at Colquhouns flat is farmed with the pastoral lease. The lessees also have grazing licences over the following three areas of conservation stewardship land:
One: LS 177 - 1.55 ha adjacent to the lower Matukituki River on the south side of the suspension bridge held on a 5 year term from Ist July 1996).
Two: PG6 - 590 ha on the south side of the Minaret Burn above the pastoral lease boundary. This licence is for 5 years from 1 July 1993 and is currently running on whilst a decision is being made regarding its future renewal.
Three: PG7 - 135 ha in the mid reaches of the Rumbling Burn. This licence is for 5 years from I July 1993 and is currently running on whilst a decision is being made regarding its future renewal.
Forests Iying to the north and west of the upper Matukituki flats which adjoin Mount Aspiring National Park are protected as conservation stewardship land.
The property is in the Lakes Ecological Region and the Wanaka
Ecological District. No Protected Natural Areas survey of the
ecological district has been carried out. In 1985 when several
pastoral lease renewals were conducted in the area, an informal
document titled "Known Biological Values of the Wanaka Ecological
District" was compiled by the Department of Lands and Survey.
This report did not cover West Wanaka pastoral lease. In February
1997 a variety of specialists from the Department of Conservation
have visited this property as part of this tenure review exercise.
PART 2
CONSERVATION RESOURCE DESCRIPTION AND ASSESSMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE
2. 1. LANDSCAPE
WEST WANAKA LANDSCAPE REPORT
Introduction
West Wanaka is a very large, linear property on the shores of Lake Wanaka extending from the Minaret Burn to the Matukituki River Mouth and extending west up the Matukituki Valley. The Matukituki arm includes flats, wetlands and lower mountain slopes below the Buchanan Peaks.
The property as a whole contains significant and important landscape values.
Background - Wanaka/Hawea Landscape Study
The Wanaka/Hawea Landscape Study (Department of Conservation draft report) is a broad based landscape assessment of the Wanaka and Huxley Ecological Districts. The study divided the area into landscape units and determined priorities for landscape protection.
Three landscape types or units apply to the property:
1. Lake Basin Unit (subtype West Wanaka).
-includes all of the lake faces from the Matukituki Mouth
to the Minaret Burn.
2. West Wanaka Unit.
-includes only a small area of the Minaret Burn north faces.
3. Matukituki Unit.
-All of the flats and south facing mountain slopes on the
true left of the river.
The landscape study identified a large area covering the Matukituki
Valley and West Wanaka as outstanding (a heritage landscape of
national significance). This category covers the entire property,
apart from the north faces of the Minaret Burn The Tenure Review
inspection has allowed a more detailed analysis of the property
within the context of the broader assessment.
WEST WANAKA STATION - LANDSCAPE CHARACTER DESCRIPTION
For the three landscape units identified on West Wanaka, (see above) a landscape character description of each is given followed by a qualitative evaluation Definition of Landscape Character.
Landscape character is the description of the identifying sum of all elements and expressions that make up the landscape. These include landform, waterform, vegetation, land use and cultural features. Following the character description, a qualitative evaluation of each landscape type is given. This is a judgement about the quality of a landscape using a set of criteria
Definition of Criteria used to Evaluate Landscape Types
The following five attributes were used in the evaluation.
Intactness: The condition of the native vegetation and the degree of modification.
Coherence: How the landscape visually 'hangs together' - derives from characteristics including intactness, unity and compatibility. Intrusions, alterations and disruptions tend to distract from coherence.
Distinctiveness: The special characteristics and qualities that make it stand out (or otherwise).
Visibility: Determines how easily and regularly a landscape is seen.
Significance: Significance of the characteristics and features. If they are locally, regionally or nationally significant.
1. Lake Basin
The Lake Basin unit has been further divided into sections for descriptive purposes.
a) Matukituki Mouth to West Wanaka homestead
From the Matukituki mouth, an ice sculptured lumpy landform characteristic of West Wanaka, Glendhu Bay area rises steeply above the West Wanaka Station road. Steep shady faces retain significant and important indigenous vegetation remnants, including an ancient matai. Elsewhere is scattered kanuka bracken and pasture grass. The river flats at the Matukituki mouth are cultivated and fenced with groupings of willow and poplar.
The homestead is nestled beneath Lookout Hill set among exotic trees.
b) Homestead to Colquhouns Flat
This section is also dominated by a glacial lumpy landform rising up to Lookout Hill with the Buchanan Peaks behind. Smooth rounded slopes contrast with steep exposed rock faces. Remnant shrublands occur in pockets, particularly on south facing aspects. Otherwise vegetation is mainly bracken and exotic grasses. The shoreline is rocky and indented with small beaches alternating with rocky headlands.
An old lake terrace terminating at a rocky headland occurs before Colquhouns Flat. Vegetation is highly modified and is primarily grass and bracken. Kanuka occurs in isolated pockets, associated mainly with rocky headlands, and along the lake edge.
An access track along the lake front is visible from the lake. One or two wilding pine trees occur.
c) Colquhouns Flat to Rumbling Burn
This section comprises ice worn slopes, incised streams, fans and terraces. Native vegetation is confined to scattered remnants along the lake margin and gully remnants (notably Cox's Bush). Elsewhere bracken is dominant below approx. 1000 metres. Brown/olive green bracken is the dominant colour, in contrast to snow tussock higher up.
The Rumbling Bum delta is notable for its terrace landforms, remnant kanuka and very large boulders (which are a feature).
d) Rumbling Burn to Minaret Burn
Very steep faces support diverse and intact lakeshore vegetation up to the first ridge. It represents the best remnant vegetation on the Lake Wanaka faces. A fault scarp nestled behind the ridge between the Minaret Burn and the Rumbling Bum is a feature. The high terrace is mainly short tussock, brown top and bracken. Views from the vantage point are spectacular across Lake Wanaka A hut and stockyards are located on the terrace.
At the mouth of the Minaret Bum the shrubland ends abruptly at the intersection with a sunny spur and gives way to bracken, grass and scattered shrubs which grade into snow tussock with altitude.
Scattered kanuka is notable near the mouth.
Lake Basin - Evaluation
| High | Mod-High | Moderate | Mod-Low | Low | |
| Intactness | X | ||||
| Moderate | X | ||||
| Coherence | X | ||||
| Distinctiveness | X | ||||
| Significance | X |
The lake faces have a high degree of variability in terms of intactness and level of landscape coherence. The areas that have been repeatedly burnt and grazed i.e. primarily bracken tend to reduce their rating for these two factors. However, left alone these areas would vigorously regenerate into shrubland and the rating would be higher.
2. Matukituki Landscape Type
This landscape type is part of the larger Matukituki unit. It includes the valley floor on the true left of the Matukituki to the properties western boundary and lower mountain slopes from Lookout Hill to Round Hill.
Landscape character description
From the mouth of the Matukituki to Lookout Hill, ice sculptured landform is the dominant characteristic.
North of Lookout Hill the headwaters of the Soft Bum contain a series of low terraces which support short tussock, scattered shrubland and exotic grasses.
The slopes extending along the base of the Buchanan Peaks are steep dark faces with a series of incised gullies and steep escarpments. Shrublands remain in the gullies and very steep areas. The largest gully culminates in a broad alluvial fan, which supports an extensive matagouri shrubland. Elsewhere on the lower slopes, dark green bracken is the dominant cover.
Further west, the main gullies support tongues of beech forest which form a distinctive landscape pattern. Beech alternates with broad undulating spurs of bracken, pasture and tussock. Matagouri dominated shrublands are associated with fan formations on the valley floor.
The wetlands including open water on the valley floor are significant and contribute to landscape character and diversity. At the western end of the property, the flats are a mix of matagouri and exotic grasses, with Juncus and Carex spp. common in wetter areas. Generally the level of modification on the flats decreases from east to west.
A series of hay barns are located on cultivated land at the eastern end of the valley and are visible from many parts of the valley.
Matukituki Type - Evaluation
This landscape type forms part of the larger Matukituki unit - a large scale glaciated valley system. This type also displays a high degree of variability in terms of the level of intactness. Shrubland remnants, beech, tussock grassland and wetland are all quite extensive and contribute to a diverse and rich landscape mosaic. Within this type there are also highly modified areas such as the lower valley floor. In visual terms there is a harmonious relationship between farming patterns and natural landscape.
| High | Mod-High | Moderate | Mod-Low | Low | |
| Intactness | X | ||||
| Coherence | X | ||||
| Distinctiveness | X | ||||
| Visibility | X | ||||
| Significance | X |
Considered as a whole (in the context of the valley system) there is a moderately high level of landscape coherence despite the degree of vegetation modification.
3. West Wanaka Type
This type refers to the north faces of the Minaret Burn and a small area of flat within the lease. The north faces form a uniform slope from the valley floor to the upper lease boundary. Vegetation is predominately exotic grasses grading into tussock with altitude. Small patterns of beech remnants occur.
West Wanaka Type - Evaluation
| High | Mod-High | Moderate | Mod-Low | Low | |
| Intactness | X | ||||
| Coherence | X | ||||
| Distinctiveness | X | ||||
| Visibility | X | ||||
| Significance | X |
Significance of Landscape
The property as a whole has high landscape values. Contributing factors to the high value include:
a) its location on the shores of Lake Wanaka (i.e. forms a backdrop view across the lake from many points, including Mount Aspiring Road and Glendhu Bay area).
b) its location within the Matukituki Valley (a highly used and easily accessed backcountry valley).
2.2 LANDFORMS AND GEOLOGY
(a) Topography and Landforms
The lease lies on the southern, western and eastern flanks of the Buchanan Mountains and lies between 280 and 1300 m.a.s.l.
The lease can be divided into six broad topographic components.
1. The Matukituki Flats
These flats are mostly formed from material deposited by the Matukituki River. A series of small fans have formed where streams enter the Matukituki Valley from the east. These elevated fans are
comprised of coarser material than the main river flats and are consequently better drained.
Prior to farm development most of the Matukituki Flats were an extensive wetland. Although most of these have now been drained, the remaining valley floor wetlands are some of the largest in the Lakes Ecological Region.
Although not part of the pastoral lease, the adjoining braided river bed of the Matukituki is an integral part of the valley ecosystem.
2. West facing lower flanks of the Buchanan Mountains above the Matukituki valley: - Round Hill Spur to the Soft Burn.
This topographic unit comprises moderately sloping faces incised by a series of catchments which drain the Buchanan Mountains. At the southern end of this zone, the lower faces are steep and bluffy with areas of boulder fields.
3. Lookout Hill and undulating country in vicinity of West Wanaka homestead.
This topographic zone has been shaped by Pleistocene glaciers
which formed a series of roche moutonnees. Massive blocks of exposed
bedrock facing into the direction of ice flow have been rounded
and smoothed, whilst the lee sides which have been subject to
a plucking out of joint blocks are characterised by steep bluffs
and rough bouldery terrain.
12
4. West facing lower flanks of the Buchanan Mountains above the shores of Lake Wanaka.
These moderately steep, relatively smooth faces are intersected by a number of catchments of varying size. The Rumbling and Minaret Bums are substantial catchments with deep valleys entering Lake Wanaka Faces between these two catchments are steep and bluffy. The lake margin comprises pebble beaches between Colquhouns Flat and the mouth of the Rumbling Bum. Colquhouns Flat is covered in lake gravels. Further evidence that the level of Lake Wanaka has fallen, is a series of raised beaches to the north of Colquhouns Flat.
5. The Minaret Burn.
The lower reaches of the Minaret Burn are entrenched into a narrow deeply incised gorge. The upper reaches comprise a series of flats, many of which are subject to periodic flooding. The faces are of moderate steepness and are dissected by numerous small streams.
(b) Geology
The underlying bedrock is strongly deformed defoliated quartzo feldspatic schist of chlorite subzone 4. Valleys have been over-ridden by glaciers to an altitude of 1370 m.a.s.l. Fan talus occurs on the valley floors, with slumps and partly collapsed solifluction slopes apparent in some areas. The Matukituki Valley is in-filled with a substantial depth of alluvial material derived from the glaciated mountains of Mount Aspiring National Park.
(c) Soils
Soils are predominantly upland and high country Yellow Brown
Earths. Dunstan Steepland soils formed from schist slope deposits,
bedrock and loess cover approximately 80% of the property. Less
fertile soils on wetter slopes up the Matukituki which have been
subject to more leaching are described Moonlight Steepland Soils.
Recent soils (Matukituki) on the Matukituki River flats are formed
from schist alluvium. Silt and clay layers impede natural drainage
in many areas, which in combination with a high water table associated
with the nearby Matukituki River, has led to the formation of
a series of large wetlands.
13
(d) Hydrology
The hydrology of the Matukituki riparian wetlands deserves specific mention as these comprise the largest wetlands in the Lakes Ecological Region. Riparian wetlands are ecosystems in which soils and soil moisture are influenced by the adjacent stream or river and are unique because of their linear form along rivers and streams.
Continuous interactions occur between riparian, aquatic and upland terrestrial systems through exchanges of energy, nutrients and species. Biotic diversity is particularly high along the boundaries of this ecosystem, as there is an overlap between species adapted to wetter and drier sites. If moisture gradients are shifted through artificial disturbance the ecological complexity is easily disrupted.
The Matukituki Valley wetlands owe their presence to 2 factors:
1: Near the current dynamic braided river bed, a series of channels have been cut off by valley floor deposition. Some of these channels are now effectively ox-bow lakes and are supplied with water from two sources (a) when the Matukituki is in flood, river flow enters these lagoons supplying them with fresh water and sediment. (b) Water flows and seeps into them from the western flanks of the Buchanan Mountains from a series of small catchments.
2: The balance of the wetlands have formed on material deposited by the Matukituki River which now lies considerably above the present level of the river. Fine deposits of silts and clays form relatively impermeable horizons, resulting in perched water tables and areas of standing water. This material is sourced from erosion of schist bedrock by glacial and to a lesser extent fluvial processes in the head waters of the Matukituki River. Water is supplied to these areas from streams entering the valley from east and from direct precipitation.
Significance of Landforms and Geology
The glacial features of the lower Matukituki Valley are of
immense scientific interest, in that they provide evidence of
periodic climatic fluctuations during the Quaternary. The braided
river bed of the Matukituki Valley and adjoining wetlands are
special physical features which contribute to the areas unique
physical character.
2.3 CLIMATE
The property is in a transition zone between the wet mountains of the Main Divide and the rain shadow to the east. Most rainfall is from the westerly quarter. Rainfall increases with proximity to the Main Divide. Precipitation also increases with altitude. Rainfall at the upper end of the pastoral lease in the Matukituki Valley is approximately 1800mm whilst at the homestead it is only 1000mm. The homestead enjoys elements of a Central Otago climate whilst the more northern areas are subject to a mountain climate. The rainfall gradient and varying aspects on the property are reflected in the vegetation and soils.
Lake Wanaka has a moderating effect on the climate on the eastern portion of the property.
2.4 VEGETATION
Vegetation in the five topographic units previously outlined is described below, with particular emphasis on areas which retain a native cover.
1. The Matukituki Flats
(a) Naturally free draining Areas
Most free draining soils on these flats have been developed into pasture; the only exception being on bouldery, frequently disturbed sites where fans enter the flats. These areas retain some components of shrubland vegetation which was likely to have been widespread on drier parts of the flats and lower faces prior to Polynesian and pastoral fires. Of particular interest are:
1. An area of matagouri covering approximately 15 hectares at the mouth of a Creek below Buchanan Peaks (west of the Soft Burn). Matagouri (Discaria toumatou), although
widespread on hillsides which have been subject to AOSTD, is not common in its natural habitat of fertile recent soils.2. The small deciduous tree, Olearia hectorii, has its most significant population nation-wide in the Matukituki Valley. West Wanaka Station contains much of this population on alluvial fans and in cliff-base shrublands. Individual trees with a diameter of up to 1 metre are present. The largest trees are growing amongst exotic pasture. Significant areas of O. hectorii are depicted on Map 2a (appended).
Stands below Tongue Spur and at the base of a small catchment entering the Matukituki Valley ~ 3km downstream from Tongue Spur contain the most impressive groves in terms of size and abundance. The narrower leaved O. Iineata is also common in some of these areas.
15O. hectorii is a category A threatened species (Molloy and Davis 1994). No juvenile plants were noted on these fans. This is a feature noted in most locations were this species occurs. Rogers ( 1996) observed that only 3 of 24 surviving populations are considered to have good chances of unaided regeneration. "Reservation proposals for 0. hectorii need to consider the need for spatially large areas to span the spatial and temporal patterns of landscape disturbance that enable the establishment of new populations."
Photo 1. Olearia hectorii Matukituki Flats [not included on this site]
.
(b) Wetlands
From a conservation perspective past land use decisions have not recognised the integrated nature of the wetlands and river bed system in the Matukituki Valley. The majority of wetlands have been drained and converted to pasture. Remaining wetlands tend to be the core areas of the original wetland ecosystem.
Three wetland remnants retain much of their natural character. These areas (depicted on Map 2a -appended) represent the largest complex of lowland wetlands in the Lakes Ecological Region.
Area 1. Broad Spur - Tongue Spur Wetland. This is a small (~15 ha) wetland pond/swamp system between Broad Spur and Tongue Spur, the majority of which is fenced to exclude stock (with the exception of the area immediately under the toe slopes of the Buchanan Peaks). A ditch at the base of the hill parallel to the farm track diverts some water away from this wetland.
Photo 2. Wetland Area on Matukituki flats between Tongue Spur and Broad Spur [not included on this site]
Area 2. Narrow Spur Wetland. This area is a substantial area comprising approximately 60 ha Iying on the Matukituki Flats to the south (downstream) of Narrow Spur. The extent of the area is apparent in Photo 3.
As with Area I, drainage ditches have been constructed to lower the water table and to turn inflows more directly to the Matukituki River. Inflow from toe slopes is now collected by drainage ditches.
Photo 3. Wetland Area on Matukituki flats located immediately south of Narrow Spur [not included on this site]
Area 3 - West Wanaka Lagoons. This area represents the single largest remaining lowland wetland in the Lakes Ecological Region comprising approximately 230 ha. See
Photo 4. West Wanaka Lagoons [not included on this site]
The three wetlands support similar botanical values and retain much of their natural character.
Portions of wetlands without permanent standing water contain many native woody species including mingimingi (Coprosma propinqua), Olearia fragrantissima, Olearia lineata and koromiko. These shrubs are often draped in bush lawyer (Rubus schmidelioides). Dominant natives at ground level are Carex secta, Carex coriacea, jointed rush (Juncus articulatus) Blechnum minus, B. penna-marina and spike rush (Eleocharis acuta). Exotic pasture plants are also widespread, especially clovers, Yorkshire fog, browntop and sweet vernal.
Raupo (Typha orientalis) stands are present on the margins of permanent pond areas. This species has probably spread as the water levels have been progressively lowered through drain construction. A number of crack willows (Salix f -agilis) are present on the margins of areas with standing water.
Where the natural water edge appears to have been relatively stable, Carex maorica, C. gaudichaudiana and toe toe (Cortaderia richardii) form a discontinuous sward, with Hydrocotyle sulcata, forget-me-not (Myosotis laxa subsp caespitosa) and buttercup Ranunculus glabrifolius forming an understory and ground cover.
Water milfoil (Myriophyllum propinqum) and pondweed (Potamogeton cheesemanii) occur as aquatic plants on open water areas.
2. West facing lower flanks of the Buchanan Mountains above the Matukituki Valley - Round Hill Spur to the Soft Burn.
The majority of these faces are either AOSTD grasslands or a mixture of exotic grasses, herbs and bracken in various stages of regeneration. Although these areas have ability to regenerate towards predominantly native shrublands; in the overall context they are considered to be of low conservation value. Over much of the length of the retirement fence, there is clear demarcation between narrow-leaved snow tussock grasslands above and exotic sweet vernal and browntop below.
Photo 5. Retirement Fence (boundary) on Matukituki Faces above Round Hill Spur [not included on this site]
Several small catchments which have served as fire refugia; probably since early Polynesian times, retain patches of beech forest. Some of these areas contain charred remains of large trees indicating that they have been burnt at some stage. Beech species present include mountain (Nothofagus solandri var cliffortioides), silver (N. menziesii) and on well drained sites, red beech (Nothofagus fusca). Halls totara (Podocarpus hallii) is also present. Sub canopy trees and shrubs include fuchsia (Fuchsia excorticata), wineberry (Aristotelia fruticosa), broadleaf or kapuka (Griselinia littoral is), koromiko (Hebe salicifolia), mapou (Myrsine australis), and lancewood (Pseudopanox crassifolius).
A small area of pastoral lease to the north of Round Hill Spur above Trig LL which has been burnt and grazed in the past, is in an advanced stage of reversion to beech forest.
It is of note that on the margins of some bush remnants, healthy mountain and red beech seedlings were observed to be successfully competing with a ground cover of tussock hawkweed (Hieracium lepidulum) and bracken fern (Pteridium esculentum).
On Tongue Spur the faces between the retirement fence and the upper beech forest margins are not easily accessible to stock. Here, the margins of the beech forest are vigorously expanding. In addition to beech saplings; mountain ribbonwood (Hoheria Iyallii) and broadleaf are present. Above the forest margins the area has reverted to a native grassland/shrubland comprised almost entirely of native species. In excess of 30 species were recorded, including prickly shield fern (Polystichum vestitum), narrow-leaved snow tussock, snowberry (Gaultheria antipoda), giant Spaniard (Aciphylla scott-thomsonii), turpentine shrub or inaka (Dracophyllum longifolium), Coprosma rugosa, Olearia nummulariifolia and tauhinu (Cassinia leptophylla).
At the southern end of these faces where the topography is rougher with low bluffs and extensive boulder fields, significant areas are vegetated by diverse shrublands, many of which contain the threatened species O. hectorii (including what appear to be young plants). Twenty six O. hectorii shrubs were counted in a series of bluffs immediately above the West Wanaka Lagoons. Other shrub species present include O. Iineata, O. odorata, koromiko, broadleaf, Aristotelia fruticosa, lancewood, cabbage trees (Cordyline australis), fuchsia, kohuha (Pittosporum tenuifolium) and native broom (Carmichaelia petriei). Rocky bluffs are vegetated by kiokio fern (Blechnum spp) and in some protected locations mountain anise (Gingidia montana).
The full extent of this area is depicted in photo 6.
Photo 6. Lower flanks of the Buchanan Mountains above the Matukituki Valley - Round Hill Spur to the Soft Burn [not included on this site].
3. Lookout Hill and Undulating country in vicinity of West Wanaka homestead.
The naturalness of vegetation on this ice worn topography is closely related to landform. Small areas of flats have been developed into exotic pasture. Moderate slopes support a mixture of bracken and exotic grasses and are subject to periodic burning and AOSTD.
Several steep bluffy and areas and rough boulder fields have not been burnt for some time and have reverted towards diverse native shrublands. Two areas are worthy of specific mention:
4. East facing lower flanks of the Buchanan Mountains above the shores of Lake Wanaka.
Large areas of these faces have been developed into exotic pasture. At lower altitudes there is a strong tendency towards reversion to bracken fern. However several sheltered areas retain native shrublands and forest or are in advanced stages of regeneration.
Significant areas which retain their natural character and botanical composition are:
(a) Lake margins: Approximately 3km of lake margins of varying width between the mouth of the Matukituki River and the mouth of the Rumbling Burn retain a mix of native species including southern rata (Merosideros umbellata), kowhai (Sophora microphylla), Halls totara, koromiko, cabbage trees, kanuka (Kunzea ericoides), manuka (Leptospermum scoparium), lancewood, broadleaf, mountain akeake (Olearia avicenniifolia), tree daisy (O. arborescens) and O. odorata growing at its western limit
(b) Cox Bush (which comprises a catchment and adjacent faces Iying to the north of Station Creek), supports approximately 200 hectares of native shrublands/regenerating forest. Surrounding bracken fern also contains a major component of native woody species. Species present include kanuka (up to 40cm dbh) broadleaf, marble leaf or putaputaweta (Carpodetus serratus), cabbage trees, Coprosma parviflora, turpentine scrub, mountain ribbonwood, Olearia bullata and silver beech in the depth of a gully.
Shrublands and bracken peter out at approximately 1000 m.a.s.l and merge into a narrow band of semi-natural grassland containing some remnant narrow-leaved snow tussock, hard tussock, blue tussock (Poa colensoi) and introduced grasses dominated by browntop (Agrostis capillaries) and sweet vernal (Anthoxanthum odoratum). Above the retirement fence at ~ 1000 m.a.s.l grasslands are dominated by narrow-leaved snow tussock.
Photo 7. Kanuka Stand - Cox Bush [not included on this site]
(c) Lake Faces between Rumbling Burn and Minaret Burn
Steep faces below a corridor of developed exotic grassland contain one of the most important shrubland/forest remnants in the Lakes Ecological Region. Many species are present which are normally associated with high rainfall areas Iying close to the Main Divide. The presence of large podocarps growing close to the shores of Lake Wanaka provides some insight into the character of the area prior to an increase in the frequency of fire with the arrival of Polynesians.
Of greatest importance is a grove of 6 mature kahikatea (Dacrycarpus dacridoides) trees growing in a damp gully, one of only two records of this species in the Lakes Ecological Region (see photo 7). Also present is a single large matai tree (Prumnopitys spicata). Numerous seedlings and small saplings of both species are present. Other tree and shrub species growing in this substantial forest remnant include Halls totara, tree daisy, mountain akeake, broad leaf, koromiko, kowhai (up to 40cm dbh), rata, kamahi (Carpodetus serratus), lancewood fuchsia and mountain ribbonwood or houhere. The northern and southern peripheries of this area have been subject to more recent burning. Although kanuka and bracken are currently dominant, in the absence of fire the diverse range of native shrubs also present are likely to rapidly dominate.
The upper reaches of these faces are in an advanced stage of regeneration towards a mixed mountain/silver beech, kanuka, manuka, inaka shrubland/forest.
Photo 8. Podocarp forest containing Kahikatea & Matai - Lake Faces Below Minaret Burn [not included on this site]
5. The Minaret Burn.
The faces in the Minaret Burn have been modified through extensive burning and grazing and are now vegetated by exotic pasture grasses or bracken. Native hard and blue tussock commonly form part of the grass sward.
Small disjunct patches of native shrub are scattered throughout
small gullies and on the margins of the Minaret Burn. Common species
include native broom (Carmichaelia petriei), mingimingi, Coprosma
rugosa, koromiko, bush lawyer and prickly shield fern.
25
At the Minaret Hut on the pastoral lease boundary a number of ponderosa pines are present including young trees. These trees represent a threat in terms of potential spread into an area, including conservation lands, otherwise devoid of exotic trees (including conservation lands). The trees are located immediately on the boundary of the West Wanaka Conservation Area.
Significance of Vegetation
Much of the property has been heavily modified through burning, AOSTD, wetland drainage and cultivation; however a significant portion retains its natural character. Some areas exert a strong tendency to revert towards an indigenous state and although having being burnt and grazed in the past, are considered to be of high conservation value. The presence of upwards of 80 Olearia hectorii trees (a category A threatened species), O. Fragrantissima (a category B threatened species), matai, kahikatea and large wetlands is particularly important from a conservation perspective.
2.5 FAUNA
(a) Invertebrate Values
The lease comprises a great diversity of habitats. Invertebrate species sampled during this survey are indicative of a range of integrated ecosystems largely comprised of native flora and fauna.
Tussocklands and Sub-alpine Shrublands
Most noticeable insects in these environments are a variety of day flying and vividly coloured moths. These include Paranotoreas brephosata, Heliothela atra, Asaphodes clarata and Dasyuris anceps. The copper butterfly Lycaena salustius and tussock butterfly Argyrophenga antipodum are also widespread. Three species of kikihi (cicada) (Kikiha n. sp. B. Patrick pers. Comm.).
Maoricicada oromelaena and M. campbelli) were observed. The presence of a suite of plant sucking bugs (e.g. Rhypodes myersi, R. china), Oncacontias vittatus and Melanacanthus margineguttatus) reflects the diversity of native vegetation and host specific functional associations. A diverse array of ground dwelling invertebrates is present, including two detritus feeding beetles (Zeudelium species), grasshoppers (Phaulacridium marginale, Alpinacris tumidicaudum) and omnivourous ground weta (Hemiandrus/Zealandosandrus species). A primitive ant species Ambylopone saundersi, only rarely noted in the South Island was found. A host of predators including four carabid beetle species and New Zealand's largest spider hunting wasp Priocnemus monachus inhabit this sub-alpine zone.
In summary, the insect community in this zone contains elements that are widespread in more natural habitats in western Otago. Its diverse assemblage is indicative of disturbance and a mosaic of different habitats present.
Beech and mixed podocarp forest remnants
In mountain, silver and red beech forest remnants, moth species are well represented where litter layers are deep and a variety of understory shrubs are present. The moth Apoctena pictoriana feeds on beech leaves. A variety of wood feeding beetles and flies dependent on such forest were observed, which collectively play an important role in decomposition and nutrient recycling. Invertebrates dependent on podocarp tree species were not noted. Invertebrates in these forests play an important role in continuing regeneration.
Shrublands of kanuka, broad-leaved and coriaceous divaricating shrubs
A number of generalist insects were noted in this habitat, including the moth Ctenopseutis obliquana, bugs in the family Lygaeidae, kikihi (Kikiha rosea), manuka beetle (Pyronota species) and two native bee species.
Olearia hectorii trees support a rich insect fauna which feed exclusively on their flowers, leaf litter, dead wood and thin leaves. Over 20 moth species are known to rely on this host, which is very high by New Zealand standards. The demise of O. hectorii over much of the South Island is reflected in the local extinction of many of these species. An examination of O. hectorii and O. odorata in the Matukituki Valley revealed nine moth species feeding on them, including one new species, not described before. This species is orange and in the genus Stathmopoda.
These shrubland - rock bluff areas support populations of the nationally uncommon moth species; Austrocidaria priorata (larvae on Coprosma) and Gingidinbora subobscurata (larvae on Gingidia).
Wetlands and braided river beds
The river flat and terrace wetlands of the Matukituki River are productive environments for insects due to their low elevation (305-340 metres), wetness, soils and induced fertility.
In the river itself, invertebrate fauna is adapted to living in the fast flowing waters where prey and food drift down stream.
Invertebrate life is more diverse in swamps and bogs due to the presence of a stable vegetation cover. A large proportion of the insect biomass observed were katydids, flies and plant sucking bugs. The insect fauna here reflects the elevation, wetland vegetation and presence of grasses. Damsel flies Xanthecnemis zealandicus, Craneflies (three species, Tipulidae!, are wetland species. Lowland grassland species include native and introduced bees, crickets, kaytidids, and an array of hoverflies, moths and bugs. Bugs observed include Nabis maoricus, Rhypodes myersi, Stenotus norvegicus, S. binotatus, Chinamiris (two species) and plant hoppers (Fulgoroidea - three species).
The diverse assemblage of insect life depends on the maintenance of a relatively stable hydrologic regime. The wetland invertebrate fauna present in the three separately described wetlands indicates that these areas are functioning as relatively natural ecosystems.
Lake and stream margins
Much of the property borders Lake Wanaka, the Matukituki River and numerous smaller waterways. Such areas are important for biotic exchange, and in their natural state, support a high level of biological diversity.
Sphecid wasps and native bees nest in sand margins. Where litter is present, black saldid bugs, predatory native and introduced wolf spiders are common. Less common are the native predatory beetles Mecyclothorax rotundicolis and Actenonyx bembidioides (second only Otago record).
Two aquatic insects - the midge Chironomus zealandicus and caddie Oeconesus maori are common in marginal vegetation. These insects are an important food source for avian and insect predators.
A variety of caddie and stoners which emerge from streams to mate and disperse, were observed. Particularly common are the stoners Zealandoblus truncus and Zealandoperla decorata The stoners Zealandoperla denticulata and Spaniocerca longicauda are confined to bush streams. Streams in less disturbed habitats support the caddie Philorheithrus lacustris and Zelolessica cheira A Hydrophilid beetle is associated with koromiko flowers in the riparian zone.
Raoulia tenuicaulis cushion plants which colonise gravels deposited during flood events in the Matukituki River, are home to many insects including the bugs Nysius huttoni and Rhypodes china).
Significance of Invertebrates
This area has a long history of natural and human induced habitat disturbance. The resulting array of habitats has been colonised by a diverse range of invertebrates. Although in general species present are representative of West Otago, diversity in relation to land area is high. Some communities which have born the brunt of more recent disturbance associated with the arrival of pastoralism, are now vulnerable to continued farming activities and further development. In particular, these are lowland stream and lake margins, wetlands and the fragmented O. hectorii population. The shrubland - rock bluff systems are a significant habitat for native invertebrates where hosts such as Gingidia montana, O. odorata and 0. Hectorii support uncommon insect species including moths which are important components of these ecosystems.
(b) Vertebrate Values
Avi Fauna: A diverse array of bird life reflects the wide range of habitats present on the property.
Birds observed in various habitats during the tenure review survey or which have been recorded during the recent past are listed below according to habitat.
Open Mountain Slopes and High Valleys. New Zealand Falcon (Minaret Burn), Kea Both species are category B threatened species.
Bush and shrublands:
Bell birds, grey warblers, New Zealand pigeon (kereru), red crowned parakeet (kakariki), tuis, fan tails and South Island tom tits. The kereru is a category B threatened species.
Braided River System on margin of pastoral lease and adjacent wetlands (within pastoral lease):
In 1982 the area was surveyed by the Wildlife Service and the West Wanaka lagoons were ranked as a wildlife habitat of moderate to high value.
The river and swamp habitats of the Matukituki Valley comprise components of a single wetland system which supports a number of specialised and generalist wetland birds.
The braided river bed provides feeding and roosting habitat for wading birds. Wading birds present include wrybill, South Island pied oystercatcher and banded dotterel. This habitat is also utilised for roosting and feeding by a range of waterfowl including the introduced mallard, Canada goose, black swan. NZ shoveller, crested grebe, paradise shelduck, pied stilt and black shag. These species are dependent on adjacent ponds and swamps for feeding, moulting and nesting purposes.
A third group of birds comprising the South Island fembird, marsh. Australasian bittern and spotless crake are totally dependent on the swamp and ponds. These secretive swamp birds rely entirely on the dense matted vegetarian of bogs and swamps for all their habitat requirements.
NZ scaup have been observed in the vicinity of the West Wanaka Lagoons although probably reside in nearby Lake Wanaka
Significance of Avi Fauna:
The wetlands are home to a large number of native bird species, some of which depend on the area for moulting and breeding. In this context they can be considered to be of regional significance. Bush and shrubland remnants provide an important extension of habitat and food source for many bird species which are otherwise confined to the large forested areas in and adjoining Mount Aspiring National Park The presence of three category B threatened species is of note.
(c) Aquatic Fauna
A comprehensive fish survey was conducted as part of the tenure review inspection. The National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research' fish data base contains no records for any of the numerous creeks which flow through the property. A summary of where native fish and eels were located follows.
(i) Streams flowing into Lake Wanaka
Minaret Stream
Map No F39 GR 94452828, 86503450, 8745 3590 and 85353510.
These sites are above a gorge containing a series of waterfalls, chutes and over hanging rocks which spans 1.5 km and appears to act as a fish barrier. No fish were present.
One site below the gorge, 150 metres above the lake edge was
sampled (GR9840 2415). At this location large numbers of whitebait
or juvenile koaro (Galaxias brevipinnis) were present. Koaro is
a category C fish species (third priority for conservation protection).
The Common bully (Giabiomorphus cotidianus) also inhabits this
site.
30
Rumbling Burn
Map No F 39 GR 9590 2105
At this location a small number of koaro (Galairias brevipinnis) ranging from 75mm to 120mm in size were present. Low numbers of koaro were attributed to the streams unstable bed and frequent high water flows.
Unnamed Tributary of Lake Wanaka
Map No F 39 GR 9590 2105
This stream has been subject to regular flood damage in recent years and the bed has in filled with sand and gravel; consequently no adult fish were located. Juveniles of koaro were observed some 50 metres upstream from Lake Wanaka
Station Creek
Map No F 40 GR 9600 1865
Station Creek has a stable bed and a well vegetated riparian margin. The stream supports a large population of sizeable koaro (lOOmm to 200mm). Fish in this size range are not common in many areas where habitat has been greatly modified. Any major disturbance could substantially reduce this population.
Unnamed Tributary of Lake Wanaka
Map No F 40 Grid Ref 9490 1575
One large (175mm) Koaro was found 50 metres above the lake in this small stream.
(ii) Streams and Water Bodies Flowing into Lake Wanaka
Unnamed Tributary of Matukituki
Map No F 40 G R 8575 1875
Contains a small population of koaro.
Ponds And Waterways On The Matukituki Flats
Map No F40 GR 8560 1770 & 8550 1930
These wetlands offer excellent habitat to eel. Long finned eels
(Anguilla dieffenbachii are present in these water bodies in quite
significant numbers. Brown trout are also present in the ponds.
The Roxburgh and Clyde Dams act as barriers to young eels (elver) migrating to the Matukituki River from the ocean. The wetlands have also been subject to regular commercial eeling. It is therefore surprising that the wetland ponds continue to support a substantial eel population. It is of note that the Ngai Tahu have recently released elvers into Lake Dunstan. some of which may make their way to the Matukituki wetlands.
Long finned eels are classified as M; meaning they are of cultural importance to Maori (Molloy and Davis 1994).
Significance of Aquatic Fauna
The presence of a healthy population of large koaro, a category C threatened species in Station Creek is important from a conservation perspective. In addition to their intrinsic worth, koaro are significant in the diet of other fish and shags. The substantial population of long finned eels in the West Wanaka lagoons is of conservation interest and of cultural significance to the Ngai Tahu.
2.6 HISTORIC VALUES
West Wanaka pastoral lease was surveyed for historic sites on 12 February 1997. Given the large area of the property, the survey primarily consisted of field inspections of previously recorded sites in the Central Otago file of the New Zealand Archaeological Association site recording scheme.
Maori Occupation: According to Anderson (1980:7) Lakes Wanaka and Hawea were customarily used by the people based on the lower Waitaki in the late historic and early historic period. In 1836 when the war party of northern Maori led by Te Puoho (Anderson 1986:17-26) passed through the area there were settlements at Makarora, the Neck (between the two lakes), at the southern end of Lake Hawea between Roys Bay and Dublin Bay on Lake Wanaka and Nehenehe where the Motutapu entered the Matukituki (although at the time of the raid Nehenehe wasn't occupied).
These sites were usually occupied seasonally while people gathered eels, ducks, wekas, fern root etc. During the 19th century the introduced potato was also being cultivated in some areas (ibid.: 18).
Early European History: The first European to reach the lakes was Nathaniel Chalmers who set out to visit the interior via the Mataura valley guided by two Maori, Reko and Kaikoura (Roxburgh 1977:24-25). John T Thomson, the Provincial Surveyor, was the first European to use the Lindis Pass. In December 1857 he crossed the pass from the Waitaki valley and climbed Mt. Grandview. From the summit he was able to see from the lakes to the Cromwell Gorge (ibid.:33-34). He was quickly followed by pastoralists seeking grazing lands. The first run taken up at Wanaka was by Robert Wilkin in 1858 who had his homestead at what is now Albert Town (ibid.28-29). The following year John Roy and H S Thomson arrived at the lake. Roy took up land around the lake up to the Matukituki and Motutapu rivers while Thomson occupied the land along the west of the lake north of the Matukituki.
Thomson acted as agent and manager for Messers Stewart and Kinross of Wellington who were the actual owners. Thomson's homestead was at the mouth of the Minaret Burn. Thomson bought the run from Stewart and Kinross in the 1870s (Angus 1981:20). By the 1882 the homestead was located on Colquhouns Flat (see fig 2a in Hamel 1993). However by the late 1880s the big sheep runs around the lake were beginning to suffer from the rabbit plague, falling wool prices, and falling production due to declining grazing because of the destruction of the native grass cover. Thomson was one of the worst affected and reputedly left West Wanaka with one horse and all his belongings on its back (Angus 1981:24-25).
West Wanaka was also the scene of the first saw milling in the area In 1859 Stuart and Kinross contracted Hassing and Broddington to cut posts, shingles and sawn timber for their run. They began cutting on West Wanaka in 1860 but soon moved the operation to Makarora where they were soon joined by other sawyers who were responding to the demand for timber from the Dunstan gold rush (ibid.:36). In 1877 Russell, Ewing and Company started a large saw mill in the Matukituki valley at Mill Creek. Twelve men were initially employed and a permanent community arose which lasted until 1899 when Ewing shifted the operation to Makarora (ibid.:38).
The Survey: A total of seven sites had been reported on West Wanaka: two artifact find spots (S115/3 & S115/7) and the other five were either ovens and umu ti (S115/2,4,11,12,13). Many of the site record forms were filled out on the basis of information provided by the Scaifes (former lessees) and were never inspected by an archaeologist (in fact only one of the recorded sites seems to have been inspected by an archaeologist - S115/11). Therefore the locations given for these sites are only rough indications (i.e. Sl lS/4&13 are probably located on the Island rather than where the grid references indicate) and only S 115/11 was actually relocated.
The area of the saw mill at Mill Creek was not surveyed.
S 1 l5/1 1 Umu ti (metric grid reference 959 174) This is located mid way along Colquhouns Flat to the east of the farm track. The oven (an umu ti is an oven used to cook the root of young cabbage trees or ti) is about 3m wide and 0.6m deep and has a distinct raised rim. This is probably the same site as S115/2.
About 100m to the south of the oven is a group of poplar trees and a few elderberries. The poplars appear to have been planted in distinct rows. These possibly mark the site of a former dwelling, perhaps the 1882 homestead (see above). However no other evidence of a dwelling apart from the trees was visible.
Significance of Historic Values: Despite locating only one site, there is no doubt that Maori occupation sites occur around the mouth of the Matukituki and elsewhere along the lake shore. All these sites (including any unrecorded ones) are protected by the 1993 Historic Places Act. Under this Act a permit is required from the Trust before a site can be modified or destroyed.
2. 7 PUBLIC RECREATION
2.7.1 Physical Characteristics
West Wanaka has two important recreational features:
(1) The property is bounded by approximately 16 km of lake shore, of which approximately one third comprises gravely beaches, some of which have a backdrop of native shrublands and forest. The fine gravely beach at Colquhouns Flat is the largest on the margin of the pastoral lease. Other beaches are located at the mouths of the Minaret Burn, Cox Bush Creek and the Rumbling Burn.
The Bay at the mouth of the Matukituki River is easily accessible from the West Wanaka Road. A private jetty facility has been rendered unusable by massive silt deposition from the Matukituki River during a major flood event in 1995. Pleasant shaded conditions are provide by willow trees and a kanuka shrubland.
(2) The other distinctive recreational feature of the property is that it forms a horse shoe shape around the West Wanaka Conservation Area, meaning that practical overland routes onto the southern section of the Buchanan Mountains traverse the property. These routes are primarily located in semi-modified pastoral lands. Some short sections contain high natural values. Routes to areas of high recreational value include the following:
(a) Two 4WD tracks give access to the shores of Lake Wanaka below the western flanks of the Buchanan Mountains. One of these tracks originates from behind the homestead and largely follows the lake shore; the other climbs into the Soft Burn from the lower Matukituki Flats and descends to Lake Wanaka, meeting the track firstly described at Cox Bush. From this point, this track climbs steeply, before traversing into the lower Minaret Burn where the track is suited to foot (and possibly mountain bike) use only. Immediately north of Cox Bush, another rough track ascends Daniels Spur, giving access to the headwaters of the Rumbling Burn. The headwaters of both the Rumbling Bum and the Minaret Bum are within the West Wanaka Conservation Area These areas are characterised by superb alpine scenery, with native subalpine and alpine vegetation including substantial tracts of tussock grasslands, alpine lakes impressive mountain peaks and pristine mountain rivers and streams.
(b) A well formed farm road heads up the Matukituki Valley as far as Round Hill Hut in the vicinity of Round Hill Spur. This route passes numerous Olearia hectorii trees and the extensive wetlands described in previous sections. From Round Hill Spur a 4WD track provides access as far as the retirement fence at 1000 m.a.s.l (pastoral lease conservation land boundary). Access to the Round Hill Spur track can be gained by crossing the Matukituki River on foot from the Wanaka Mount Aspiring Road when River levels are low. The Round Hill Spur track represents a logical foot access route towards Mt Alta and into the headwaters of the Rumbling Burn.
West Wanaka pastoral lease provides a scenic backdrop to those pursuing recreational activities in numerous locations, including boating on Lake Wanaka, skiing at Treble Cone, driving up the Wanaka Mt Aspiring Road and rock climbing on bluffs on the west side of the Matukituki River.
2.7.2 Public Access
(a) Marginal strips
Marginal strips are laid off on Bent Stream (upper Matukituki Flats), an unnamed stream which crosses the Matukituki Flats at Round Hill Spur. the Matukituki River, the shores of Lake Wanaka, the Rumbling and Minaret Burns. Marginal strips at the mouth of the Matukituki River do not appear to reflect the current location of river channels and islands.
(b) Roads
A legal formed road provides access across the Matukituki River to the vicinity of the West Wanaka homestead. From this point, a formed farm track closely follows the legal road line as far as Colquhouns Flat Above Colquhouns Flat the track is inside or close to the lakeside marginal strip. A formed track which can be used by 2WD vehicles provides access to West Wanaka Bay north of "The Island". This route appears to lie on or close to an existing marginal strip.
(c) Easements
There are no access easements registered against the pastoral
lease.
2.7.3 Activities
Activities which are know to occur within, or on the margins of West Wanaka pastoral lease include:
Picnicking, Boating and Camping:
In terms of numbers these activities are probably the most popular. During summer months the lake shore from West Wanaka Bay northwards receives heavy use by boat owners. West Wanaka Bay is easily accessible by vehicle and is used for picnicking and boat launching. The shores of Lake Wanaka in the vicinity of Colquhouns Flat beach) receive particularly heavy use. The level of lakeshore use decreases up the lake, as much of the shore is bouldery, the lake becomes more exposed and distance from launching sites is considerable.
With permission from the lessees. various groups camp in the vicinity of West Wanaka Bay.
Tramping and Climbing:
Although the opportunities for these activities in the Buchanan Mountains are not well known, a number of people gain access through the pastoral lease; with the most commonly used routes being Mount Alta via Round Hill Spur and the Minaret Burn via the main farm track up the Lake. Mount Alta is occasionally climbed via the Rumbling Burn from the lakeside 4WD track
Fishing:
The shores of Lake Wanaka and the Matukituki River are regularly frequented by recreational fishers.
Hunting:
For many years hunters have gained access to the West Wanaka Conservation area via West Wanaka Pastoral Lease with permission from the lessees. Areas of regular use include Round Hill Spur, the Rumbling and Minaret Burns. In the past, a commercial safari hunter used to utilise the Minaret Burn. The West Wanaka Lagoons are a popular game bird hunting area (subject to permission from the lessees).
Skiing:
The Buchanan Peaks area is regularly used for heliskiing by local operators. Independent patties occasionally use the area for ski-mountaineering. West Wanaka pastoral lease itself contains no areas with a reliable snow cover. As is the case for other activities based in the West Wanaka Conservation Area, access through the pastoral lease is integral for this activity.
Significance of Recreational Values
West Wanaka contains a number of routes into a large area
of conservation land which is effectively land locked. The lake,
and to a lesser degree the river margins receive a high and increasing
level of recreational use. The property forms a scenic back drop
to a range of activities.
PART 3
CONSULTATION AND DISTRICT PLANS
3.1 CONSULTATION
An "early warning" meeting was held in Alexandra on the 30 April 1997.
A summary of points raised is as follows:
Written comments presented in a report prepared by Mike Floate on behalf of Federated Mountain Clubs are summarised below:
Recreation:
Public access to:
Pubiic use of huts at upper pastoral lease boundary in Minaret Burn (Slip Stream) and mouth of Minaret Burn.
Landscape/Natural Values:
3.2 DISTRICT PLAN (MATTERS OF NATIONAL IMPORTANCE)
West Wanaka lies within the Queenstown Lakes District. A draft district plan has been prepared for the council. This plan is currently undergoing a lengthy submission process. In the mean time, the transitional district plan remains the principle planning document although council must also have regard for the proposed plan.
Under the transitional plan 90% of the property is zoned rural L (landscape protection) with the flats around Round Hill being Rural B, and the Minaret Burn being Rural C. Rural L zone policy is to provide protection to areas of high visual amenity by limiting permitted uses to those sympathetic to visual environmental values.
Predominant uses are:
1. Farming of any kind.
2. Parks and Reserves.
3. Water and Soil Conservation.
4. Buildings associated with the above uses including dwellings.
Conditional uses include huts and camping grounds.
Under the proposed district plan relevant rural policies include:
"to safeguard the natural character and conservation values
of the riparian margins and associated ecosystems".
'to encourage the retention and enhancement, enhancement and re-establishment of wetlands and vegetation adjacent to, and associated with water bodies".
The majority of the property lies within an "area of landscape importance". The plan places strict controls on activities including building and earthworks but permits current pastoral activity and associated land management practices.
The balance of the property within the proposed Rural Upland Zone. Controlled activities (permitted subject to conditions) in this zone include buildings, earthworks, tree planting and mineral exploration. Discretionary activities include mining and commercial recreation activities. Non complying activities include power generation facilities. There are no prohibited land based activities within the zone.
The council may consider applications on a non notified basis for certain activities including all controlled activities.
Olearia hectorii in the Matukituki Valley, the West Wanaka lagoons, matai, Olearia hectorii and O. fragrantissima at the West Wanaka bridge have been scheduled as being areas having significant indigenous vegetation and significant habitats of indigenous fauna for sustainable management.
3.3 CONSERVANCY CONSERVATION STRATEGY
The Otago Conservancy of DOC has produced a draft Conservation Management Strategy (CMS) which is nearing final approval, after a lengthy planning which involved public consultation.
The CMS identifies 41 special places of conservation interest in the Otago Conservancy. West Wanaka pastoral lease lies within the Matukituki Special Place (Special Place #34).
The West Wanaka Conservation Area which adjoins West Wanaka pastoral lease is part of the South West New Zealand World Heritage Area.
The stated objective for this special place is:
'To protect the high landscape and ecological values of this major
access corridor and buffer to Mount Aspiring National Park and
provide for an appropriate range of recreational uses compatible
with the character of the valley and surrounding mountains and
with the maintenance of high quality visitor experiences.
Relevant implementation policies are:
(a) An increase in the area of wetland under formal protection will be sought.
(b) Formal protection will be negotiated for areas of Olearia hectorii.
(c) Building controls and sensitive use of the valley will be advocated to protect the high landscape values.
(d) Opportunities that may arise through pastoral lease tenure reviews, will be used to negotiate for the protection of areas of high landscape and biological importance and to secure recreational access to valued areas and to lead to more efficient or effective conservation management.
(e) Advocacy under the Resource Management Act and any other relevant statute will be maintained to secure protection of significant natural and historic resources.
(f) A freshwater fisheries survey will be carried out.
The stated priority for the area is "Improving the security
of and opportunities for enhanced public enjoyment of this Special
Place '.
PART 4
JUSTIFICATION AND RECOMMENDATIONS
4.1 INTRODUCTORY STATEMENT
The areas described in the proposals which follow have high inherent values in the Departments opinion, and should be taken into account in tenure review discussions, along with public access requirements.
All recommended fencing will be charged against the Land Tenure Reform Account.
4.2 AREAS TO BE FULLY RESTORED TO CROWN OWNERSHIP
4.2.1 Proposal: Matukituki Wetlands
That three areas of wetland on the Matukituki Valley floor are restored to full Crown ownership and protected as government purpose reserves under Section 22(2) Reserves Act (1977) and administered by the Department of Conservation. A buffer area around each of these reserves will be protected under a conservation covenant to be issued under section 77 Reserves Act (1977). The buffer covenants will prevent any further drainage or other activity that could have a negative impact on the wetlands. The covenants will also confer on the Department the right to pursue habitat management within the buffer zones in order to protect the core reserve areas (for example to divert water from these areas into the wetland reserves for the purpose of wetland restoration. The 3 areas are depicted on Map 3 and comprise separate parcels of 230, 60 and IS hectares (estimates only).
As of right public entry into the 3 areas will be confined to access from the Matukituki Riverbed (Crown land) and marginal strip. In practice most of those wishing to gain access to the wetlands (primarily gamebird hunters) will seek permission from West Wanaka Station and use the main farm track up the Matukituki Valley.
The 3 areas are remnants of a large wetland system that once covered much of the Matukituki Valley.
The hydrology of these areas appears to be essentially controlled by natural processes, despite substantial modification to surrounding lands.
The areas are a breeding and feeding environment for a host of native and introduced bird life. The presence of moulting paradise shelduck gives the area a moderate to high ranking under criteria used by the previous Wildlife Service in their NZ Wildlife Service National Habitat Register.
The areas contain a great diversity of insect fauna most of which is native.
The wetlands contain a significant component of native vegetation; especially in core areas with permanent standing water and those which are frequently submersed for extended periods.
The largest of the three wetlands (West Wanaka Lagoons) comprises the most extensive lowland wetland in the Wanaka Ecological District. The diversity of native bird, insect, aquatic and plant life qualifies the wetlands as having regional conservation significance. Despite being physically separated, the areas were once part of one large wetland complex. Considerable biological interaction (e.g. movement of birds) continues to occur between the areas.
There is a long history of wetland modification in New Zealand. Only 8% of pre European lowland wetlands now remain. Wetlands now occupy less than 2% of the total land area of New Zealand.
Drainage continues today. 14% of remaining lowland wetlands in the North Island were drained between 1979 and 1983 (Beazley 1994). New Zealand as a signatory of the RAMSAR convention has an obligation to protect remaining viable wetlands.
The presence of long finned eels in the wetland lagoons is of nature conservation importance and of cultural importance to the Ngai Tahu. This species is a category M threatened species ie a species of cultural importance to Maori that is rare or localised. Preservation and restoration of the wetlands stands to have clear benefits for nature conservation, Ngai Tahu and gamebird hunters.
The Department's Otago Conservation Management Strategy document lists as a stated objective for the Matukituki Valley Special Place that an "increase in the area of wetland under formal protection will be sought".
Formalised access up the Matukituki Valley, beyond the mouth of the Soft Burn to these wetlands is not considered to be a realistic objective, as it would entail people travelling through the heart of an intensive farming operation.
The advantage of protecting the areas as government purpose reserves (Wildlife Management Reserves) is that the wetlands will receive suitable protection and will not be available for commercial uses (as opposed to conservation areas over which concessions can be sought). It is considered that commercial fishing is inappropriate due to uncertainties over eel recruitment to the area Reserve status is flexible enough to allow for customary use and gamebird hunting.
The boundaries of the largest of the 3 recommended wetland reserves have been designed to ensure that all water inflows are protected and enter the wetland rather than being directed away from it.
It is imperative that activities on surrounding land do not further alter water levels in these wetlands. If these areas are protected under the tenure review process, future management; particularly with respect to water levels and water management should be incorporated into the Department's work programmes. If the Department is unable to allocate resources to such a project, the areas should nevertheless be protected, and a management strategy formulated to prevent any further damage.
(a) The small wetland at the base of Broad Spur is ring fenced; however the top end of the proposed reserve should be extended to the toe of the hill. This will require erection of approximately 400 metres of additional fencing. No alteration of water levels is recommended.
(b) The 60 hectare wetland at the base of a farm track which climbs towards Buchanan Peaks from a point south of Narrow Spur is fenced close to recommended reserve boundaries. The hill foot boundary should be realigned to the toe of the hill in order to ensure the management of water flows can be undertaken. Approximately 4.5km of fencing is required to exclude stock from the area A key aspect to managing this wetland will be the restoration of water levels in order to eliminate existing fluctuations and to ensure that the core area is wet on a more permanent basis. The initial step for designing a suitable restoration programme would be to undertake a levels survey in order to ensure that any dams constructed do not affect surrounding farmland.
(c) The large 230 hectare wetland which lies between Narrow Spur and the Soft Burn (West Wanaka Lagoons) is currently partially fenced. An estimated 4.5 km of fencing will be required to fence the area along recommended boundaries. The upper boundary of the wetland would not require fencing if protection of adjoining shrublands (see recommendation four) is successfully negotiated. Recommended management of this wetland centres around protection of water inflows and restoring the water level so as to enhance wetland values. As with the Broad Spur wetland, a key aspect to managing the area will be the restoration of water levels in order to minimise existing fluctuations and to ensure that the core area is wet on a more permanent basis. The initial step for designing a suitable restoration programme would be to undertake a levels survey so as to ensure that any dams constructed do not effect surrounding farmland. Between the wetland and the river is a block of higher ground which is cultivated. This is not part of the reserve proposal and the boundaries have been sited in recognition of farming values present. The boundary has been sited to protect Coprosma and matagouri shrublands on the lower hillslopes and below the farm track.
Removal (by spraying ) of approximately 15 crack willow trees from the margins of the largest of the three wetlands should be a priority.
In other respects weed and pest problems are not major for any of the 3 wetland areas. Despite the presence of exotic plants and bird species, the areas continue to function as natural ecosystems which provide a valuable habitat for native plants, insects and fauna
Given the value placed by the Ngai Tahu on traditional food sources, particularly in the Wanaka area, if these wetlands are designated as reserves, the Department may face some difficult management decisions relating to traditional harvesting, recent commercial use of the fishery by non Ngai Tahu interests and game bird hunting and fishing by the general public. If an appropriate consultation process is undertaken, nature conservation, Ngai Tahu interests and recreational shooters all stand to gain from protection and restoration of the wetlands. Initial dialogue with Ngai Tahu indicates that the recommended form of protection is compatible with their interest over the wetlands.
An easement in favour of West Wanaka Station over the farm track which traverses this area will be required for farm access purposes.
4.2.2 Proposal: Round Hill Boundary Adjustments
Approximately 80 hectares of land within the pastoral lease, all of which adjoins existing bush covered conservation land is in advanced stage of reversion into beech forest and mixed shrublands. It is recommended that this area (as depicted on Map 3) be restored to full Crown ownership as a Conservation Area under Section 7 Conservation Act (1987).
Much of the area is regenerating red, silver and mountain beech with some young Halls totara present. Hardwood shrub regeneration includes Fuchsia, wineberry, broadleaf or kapuka, Koromiko mapou and Lancewood Bird life in the area includes bell birds, grey warblers, wood pigeon (kereru), red crowned parakeet (kakariki), fan tails and tomtits.
This proposal would link a sizeable area of beech forest (conservation land) to the north of Round Hill Spur with a continuous stand of forest which extends into the headwaters of the Matukituki catchments in the heart of Mount Aspiring National Park. The areas proposed for restoration to full Crown ownership have little farming value and this proposal represents a logical adjustment of boundaries between conservation and farmland.
This proposal will incur little extra management on the Department as the additional areas will be managed as part of an extensive area of forested conservation land.
Over much of this area, the density of regeneration appears to be preventing or discouraging grazing. Little would be gained from fencing the amended boundaries unless funds are obtained to fence approximately 9km of unfenced boundary between conservation land and farmland on the Matukituki River Flats above Round Hill Spur and Trig LL.
Liaison with the Department will be necessary when adjoining land is burnt; this is no different than the current situation where all burning in this area is within 1 km of a State Area.
4.2.3 Proposal: Tongue Spur Bush
That an estimated 150 hectares comprising an altitudinal sequence from the Matukituki Valley floor to the existing retirement fence at ~1000 m.a.s.l be restored to full Crown ownership as a Conservation area under Section 7 of the Conservation Act (1987).
A fan at the base of Tongue Spur contains seven Olearia hectorii trees growing in association with the narrower leaved O. Iineata.
Mature forest is confined to the two major gully systems and comprises a mixture of silver, mountain and red beech with a scattering of Halls totara trees. Beech regeneration is vigorous on the margins.
The faces between the retirement fence and the upper beech forest margins, and the crest of Tongue Spur, are not easily accessible to stock. The upper margins of the beech forest are vigorously expanding. In addition to beech saplings, mountain ribbonwood and broadleaf are present. Above the forest margins, the area comprises a native grassland/shrubland dominated by native species including prickly shield fern,, narrow-leaved snow tussock, giant Spaniard and turpentine scrub.
This represents are rare opportunity to protect an altitudinal sequence of native vegetation and associated fauna encompassing an endangered tree species on a valley floor fan system, montane beech forest, sub-alpine shrublands, alpine tussock grasslands and high alpine vegetation close to the permanant snow line in the vicinity of Buchanan Peaks.
O. hectorii is a category "A" threatened plant species meaning that it has the highest priority ranking for conservation action. Rogers (1996) noted that reservation proposals for O. hectorii must consider the need for large areas to span the spatial and temporal patterns of landscape disturbance that enable the establishment of new populations. For this reason, protecting this species as part of an intact altitudinal sequence is seen as being particularly important. Protection of O. hectorii is also important in order to sustain insect species which depend exclusively on this species for their survival. O. hectorii is an important host for native insects which depend on this host for their survival. One moth species which breeds on this plant, is possibly endemic to the Matukituki Valley.
Approximately 500 metres of fencing will be required to fence grazing animals from the fan containing the O. hectorii trees. The balance of the area does not require additional fencing as stock are excluded from tongue spur by a combination of terrain and existing fencing which is in good condition.
As O. hectorii does not appear to be naturally regenerating, an adaptive management approach will be essential for this area. Destocking may prevent juvenile plants from being grazed; on the other hand competition from ungrazed exotic grasses may have an equally negative impact. Periodic stocking, hand weeding or spraying may be required to restore the viability of this species. The reservation of several stands provides a valuable opportunity to monitor the effects of different protection regimes.
Weed and pest problems are not significant over the balance of the area Periodic possum control may be necessary in conjunction with West Wanaka Station and with programmes on nearby conservation lands.
4.2.4 Proposal: Faces above West Wanaka Lagoons including
O. hectorii on fan of unnamed creek 1.2 km south of Narrow Spur
That an area of approximately 370 hectares (refer Map 3) comprising moderately steep and steep bluffy faces and an alluvial fan located midway between Narrow Spur and the Soft Bum be restored to full Crown ownership as a Conservation area under Section 7 of the Conservation Act (1987).
The rough bluffy and bouldery faces to the south above the large wetland and extending a further 2km southwards are vegetated by diverse shrublands, many of which contain O. hectorii, including what appear to be quite young plants. Twenty-six a hectorii were counted in this area This endangered species is particularly common immediately above the large wetland on the Matukituki River Flats (proposed for protection in Recommendation 4.2.1). Other shrub species growing on these faces include O. Iineata. O. odorata. koromiko, broadleaf, Aristotelia fruiticosa. Lancewood, cabbage trees, fuchsia, kohuha and native broom. Rocky bluffs are vegetated by Blechnum fern and, in some inaccessible locations, mountain anise is present (on which the uncommon mountain anise moth was noted).
The alluvial fan contains an additional eight mature O. hectorii trees. O. hectorii is a category "A" threatened plant species meaning that it has the highest priority ranking for conservation action.
It is possible that the O. hectorii on the bluffs and faces of this area is the only viable population of this endangered species in the Matukituki Valley. There are a number of possible explanations for this; the most likely being that it is one of the few areas where disturbance is predominantly from natural events ie rockfall, slips and perhaps occasional fire. The balance of the shrublands are a
valuable example of a vegetation type which would have been common in the valley prior to human disturbances. O. hectorii, O. odorata and Gingidia montana are host to a range of unique, and in some cases, rare insect life.
The O. hectorii present on the adjacent fan are one of the better examples of mature trees in the valley.
In a wider context, the protection of a continuous area comprising the West Wanaka lagoons, an alluvial fan and series of bluffs and shrub covered faces will comprise an important reserve/conservation area which will allow natural processes to dominate over the whole area This is particularly important for hydrological processes in the wetlands.
Approximately 4km of fencing will be required in addition to fencing outlined under Recommendation Two (West Wanaka lagoons). An estimated 6km of the area will be bounded by existing fences.
Weeds are not a serious problem in the area It is considered that under a nil stocking and no burning regime that native shrub regeneration will dominate over exotic species.
Animal pests are not considered a serious problem in the area However it is important that if negotiations are successful to protect this area, that the Department is able to work in with West Wanaka Station over periodic possum control.
The O. hectorii on the alluvial fan does not appear to be naturally regenerating. An adaptive management approach for this area will be essential. Destocking may prevent juvenile plants from being grazed; on the other hand competition from a sward of exotic grasses may have an equally negative impact. Periodic stocking, hand weeding or spraying may be necessary to restore the viability of this species. The reservation of several stands provides a valuable opportunity to monitor the effects of different management regimes.
4.2.5 Proposal: West Wanaka Bridge Bluff Shrublands
That an estimated 40 hectares be restored to full Crown ownership and protected as a Conservation Area under Section 7 Conservation Act (1987).
This area which lies to the west of the West Wanaka road after crossing the Matukituki Bridge contains important botanical values. In addition to species described as being present in shrublands elsewhere on the property, the area contains two mature matai trees (male and female),
Arthropodium candidium, (a native lily), Olearia hectorii, O. fragrantissima and mountain beech along the river margins.
Arthropodium candidium is described as being scattered but seldom common. Olearia hectorii is a category "A" threatened plant species meaning that it has the highest priority ranking for conservation action. a fragrantissima is a category B species for conservation action. The two matai trees are probably the eastern most of their kind in Central Otago and constitute evidence that this species was once more widespread. These two trees and the single tree near the mouth of the Minaret Burn are probably the only three matai trees in the Lakes Ecological Region. Formal protection is therefore extremely important, as is the retention of areas which may provide a suitable habitat for younger replacement trees to establish.
The retention of areas of native forest and shrublands contributes to the outstanding landscape features in this area.
No additional fencing is required for this area, as a combination of existing fencing and bluffs excludes domestic stock.
Recent roading work completed on behalf of the Queenstown Lakes District Council has effectively created a ponding area during wet weather at the base of the matai trees. Unless a culvert is placed under the road it is likely that the trees will gradually die.
Animal pests are not considered a serious problem for the flora in the area However it is important that if negotiations for protection are successful, that the Department is able to work in with West Wanaka Station over periodic possum control.
4.2.6 Proposal: Lakeside Conservation Areas
That approximately 3km of land adjacent to Lake Wanaka (above the existing marginal strip) between the mouths of the Matukituki River and the Rumbling Burn (see map 3) be restored to full Crown ownership and protected as Conservation Areas under Section 7(1) Conservation Act (1987). Between Station Creek and the Rumbling Burn it is proposed that the area extend from the lakeshore to an existing farm track which runs parallel to the lake shore.
These lakeside areas of varying width retain a mix of native species including southern rata, kowhai, Halls totara, koromiko, cabbage trees, kanuka, manuka, lancewood, broadleaf, mountain akeake and tree daisy.
These areas represent one of the few parts of the Lake Wanaka shoreline which have largely been protected from fire and grazing. The forest/shrubland remnants provide an insight into the character of the area prior to an increase in the frequency of fire associated with Maori and European settlement.
The remnants add to the areas outstanding landscape and contribute to the setting for lakeside recreation.
These areas will not require fencing as they are mostly inaccessible to stock. In the absence of burning,, reversion to native wood vegetation will continue.
Some possum control may be beneficial. There is noticeable rata die back which may be a result of possum browsing.
There is a risk of accidental fire from recreational use of the lake margins. However the area has received substantial recreational use for many years and no accidental fires have occurred.
4.2.7 Proposal: Cox Bush Conservation Area
That an estimated 200 hectares comprising one medium sized and one small catchment Iying to the north of Station Creek be restored to full Crown ownership and protected as a Conservation Area under Section 7 Conservation Act ( 1987).
Native shrublands, regenerating forest and bracken fern with a major component of native woody species cover most of this area Forest and shrubland species present include kanuka, broadleaf, marble leaf, cabbage trees, coprosma parviflora, turpentine scrub, mountain ribbonwood and silver beech in the depth of a gully.
Shrublands and bracken peter out at approximately 1000 m.a.s.l and merge into a narrow band of semi-natural grassland with some remnant narrow-leaved snow tussock and native short tussock species.
From a botanical and landscape perspective, it is important to protect areas adjacent to Lake Wanaka which retain their natural character. Cox's Bush represents a sequence of vegetation extending from the lake shore to the summit of Buchanan Peaks. If freeholded, it is only a matter of time until the area is burnt, as it is of little grazing value in its current semi-forested state.
The area is an important component of an outstanding landscape and contributes to the setting for lakeside recreation.
It is considered that regeneration into woody species in the absence of fire would not be hindered if the area is not fenced as it is already virtually inaccessible to stock.
Surrounding faces are burnt at regular intervals. The ridge line boundaries have been sited to minimise the risk of fire escaping into the area It would be desirable for the Department to offer assistance when adjacent areas are bums. Given the sunny aspect and quantity of tall bracken, an escaped fire could destroy much of the areas values.
Animal pests are not considered a serious problem. However it is important that if negotiations for protection are successful, that the Department is able to work in with West Wanaka Station over periodic possum control.
4.2.8 Proposal: Lake Faces - Rumbling Burn to Minaret Burn
and faces on true left of Rumbling Burn (north branch)
That an estimated 460 hectares comprising steep lake faces, and rugged faces above the true left of the north branch of the Rumbling Burn be restored to full Crown ownership and protected as a Conservation Area under Section 7 Conservation Act (1987).
The steep lakeside faces contain one of the most important shrubland/forest remnants in the Lakes Ecological Region. A grove of six mature kahikatea trees and a single large matai tree are present in a damp gully. Other tree and shrub species in this substantial forest remnant include Halls totara, tree daisy, mountain akeake, broad leaf, koromiko, kowhai, rata and kamahi.
The upper reaches of these faces are in an advanced stage of regeneration towards a mixed mountain/silver beech, kanuka, manuka, inaka shrubland/forest.
Faces on the true left of the Rumbling Burn support regenerating mountain and silver beech forest and sub-alpine scrub. This area is rarely frequented by stock.
The presence of large podocarps growing close to the shores of Lake Wanaka provides some insight into what the area was probably like prior to Polynesian fires (and perhaps to fires predating human settlement) and is highly significant from a scientific perspective. The forest remnant is of exceptional scenic value given its proximity to the shores of Lake Wanaka and provides a natural recreational setting not exceeded elsewhere on Lakes Wanaka, Hawea or Wakatipu.
The inclusion of the true left of the north branch of the Rumbling Burn is a logical extension of the West Wanaka Conservation Area the area supports a native vegetation cover and is of high scenic value. the area is of low grazing value and is rarely frequented by stock.
Gingidia montana plants which are present on bluffs near the mouth of the Minaret Burn are host to a range of unique, and in some cases, rare insect life.
An easement will be required under section 17(2)(2)(b) Conservation Act (requires public notification) for West Wanaka Station to gain access across proposed conservation land from the Rumbling Burn into proposed freehold land at the top of the lake faces south of the Minaret Burn and into the Minaret Burn itself£ Alternatively an easement could be established under Section 60 of the Land Act prior to transfer to the conservation estate. This procedure can be dealt with through the Commissioner of Crown Lands tenure review notification process.
An estimated 7.5 km of fencing will be required to fence this area from farm land above the lake faces and in the Minaret Burn. It is not practical to fence the area from grazing lands on the opposite side of the Rumbling Burn on Daniels Spur. Stock trespass across the Rumbling Bum is unlikely to be a major problem.
Weeds are not a significant problem in the proposed conservation area Periodic possum control will be desirable on the forested faces. The health of rata should be monitored.
4.3 AREAS TO BE COVENANTED
4.3.1 Proposal: Narrow Spur Bush Remnants
That beech forest remnants on the northern and southern sides of Narrow Spur (Matukitaki Valley) are subject to a conservation covenant under section 77 Reserves Act (1977). The covenant would exclude burning on the spur between the two forest remnants. This will facilitate the expansion and eventual linking of the areas. Total area is an estimated 60 hectares.
These areas comprise the second largest beech remnants in the Matukituki Valley (within the pastoral lease). Mountain and silver beech are present. Less common are Halls totara. Sub canopy trees and shrubs include; fuchsia, wineberry, broadleaf, koromiko, mapou and lancewood. The forest remnant is home to many forest birds which inhabit larger forested areas to the west.
Beech remnants above the Matukituki Flats are evidence that forests once extended well to the east of the -large tracts of forest on the flanks of the Main Divide. They are an important component of the landscape in the approach to Mount Aspiring National Park. These areas experience a warmer and drier climate than forests to the west and therefore represents a distinct habitat for bird life and insect fauna Although likely to have some protection under the district plan, permanant protection under a covenant provides a greater incentive to keep fire out of the area and secures the opportunity for the Department to fence the areas if considered a priority in the future.
It is not considered a priority to fence the area at this point in time. As with all covenants and conservation areas, the area should be subject to regular scheduled inspections.
Proposal 4.3.2: Beech forest remnant in unnamed creek 1.2 km south of Narrow Spur.
That this beech forest remnant covering an estimated 5 hectares is subject to a conservation covenant under section 77 Reserves Act ( 1977). The covenant would exclude burning.
This small area of silver beech forest located in a narrow gully has been protected from past fires.
The basis for this recommendation is that this catchment lies above an area containing an important stand of Olearia hectorii recommended for protection as a conservation area The proposed protection is in recognition that the survival of 0. Hectorii may in part depend on the retention of natural processes up stream.
Given the protected location of this forest remnant, fencing the area is not considered necessary.
Proposal 4.3.3: Matagouri Covered Fan on Matukituki Flats
at base of catchment to the west of Buchanan Peaks.
That this area (estimated 40 hectares) is subject to a conservation covenant under section 77 Reserves Act ( 1977). The covenant would exclude burning or vegetation clearance whilst allowing for current farming activities.
This fan supports, what is probably the largest area of mature matagouri growing in its natural habitat in the Matukituki Valley.
Although widespread in areas subject to AOSTD, mature stands on allavial surfaces have largely been removed. The area contributes to the outstanding landscape of the valley.
The area can easily be defined on maps and photos. Fencing is not considered necessary. The covenant would simply prevent the area from being burnt or otherwise cleared.
Proposal 4.3.4: Buffer Covenant around three wetlands recommended
for incorporation into the conservation estate (see proposal
4.2.1)
That a buffer area around each of these proposed conservation areas will be protected under a conservation covenant to be issued under section 77 Reserves Act ( 1977). The buffer covenants will prevent any further drainage or other activity that could have a negative impact on the wetlands. They will also confer on the Department, the right to pursue habitat modification in order to protect the core reserve areas; for example to divert water from these areas, into the reserves for the purpose of wetland restoration. The extent of the covenant areas is depicted on Map 3.
Wetlands are strongly influenced by what happens outside their boundaries. Drainage of water courses away from them, or deepening of existing drainage channels dramatically alters their hydrological regime and in turn affects a suite of ecological processes.
It is imperative that if this proposal is implemented, that the Department builds on the current positive relationship with the lessees of West Wanaka station. DOC staff will need to regularly monitor the area and Liaise with the landowners.
4.3.5 Proposal: Lookout Hill Shrublands
That approximately 110 hectares be formally protected under a conservation covenant to be issued under section 77 Reserves Act ( 1977).
This area on the southern flanks of Lookout Hill has regenerated into a diverse mixed shrubland containing many of the species described in shrublands elsewhere on the property. Towards the summit of Lookout Hill, shrublands grade into a mixed narrow leaved (Chionochloa rigida), hard tussock (Festuca novae-zelandiae) grassland/shrubland.
These shrublands are almost entirely native in composition and are one the largest mixed hardwood shrubland/remnants on the property. The area is highly visible from the lower Matukituki Valley, the West Wanaka road and parts of Lake Wanaka.
The area is relatively inaccessible to stock due to the nature of the terrain and the thick vegetation cover. Those boundaries not already fenced do not require fencing.
The area is not particularly vulnerable to spread of fire from controlled burning on adjoining land.
Periodic possum control may be necessary in conjunction with West Wanaka Station.
Proposal 4.3.6: Station Creek Riparian Protection
That if Station Creek does not qualify for a marginal strip at time of survey, that a 20 metre margin on each side of the stream be laid off between its mouth at Lake Wanaka and the upper boundary of the property. It is recommended that this area be formally protected under a conservation covenant under section 77 Reserves Act ( 1977).
Station Creek supports a large population of sizeable koaro. This is attributed to the very stable stream bed and the excellent condition of riparian vegetation on the stream margins.
Koaro of similar size or quantity were not found in elsewhere on the property. Koaro is one of four native fish species on the threatened species register, being a category C species (third priority for protection). Retention of healthy riparian vegetation is necessary for this species to thrive.
Burning or clearance of riparian vegetation is the greatest threat to the Station Creek koaro. Fencing the area is not considered practical or cost effective.
Proposal 4.3.7: Landscape Protection Covenant - Cox Bush
to Rumbling Burn
That an estimated 400 hectares of land not recommended for incorporation into the conservation estate on the Lake Wanaka faces be subject to a conservation covenant under Section 77 Reserves Act (1977) in order to protect landscape values. It is envisaged that the covenant will allow current farming activities to continue whilst preventing plantation forestry, further tracking, fenceline clearance or erection of structures.
The area is highly visible from Lake Wanaka and is nestled between two substantial areas of native vegetation recommended for incorporation into the conservation estate. Much of the area is covered in bracken fern which is burnt at periodic intervals. The balance has been converted into rough pasture comprised of a mix of native and exotic species. One semi overgrown bulldozed track bisects the area This track is barely visible from Lake Wanaka.
In terms of visibility the lake faces were given the highest ranking in the landscape evaluation. If negotiations are successful to protect adjoining areas it would compromise the integrity of the protected areas if significant alterations were made to the faces subject to this recommendation. At this point in time there can be no surety for the Department that landscape protection provisions in the proposed Queenstown Lakes District Plan will come into force.
There are no complicated issues arising from this recommendation. As with all covenants the Department will need to add it to a schedule for periodic inspection and landowner liaison. This can easily be accommodated with inspection of adjoining lands proposed for transfer to the conservation estate.
4.4 ACCESS ARRANGEMENTS
Proposal 4.4.1: Matukituki Valley from West Wanaka homestead
That vehicle access for DOC management purposes be secured over the farm road up the Matukituki Valley as far as Round Hill Spur Hut (refer also to proposal 4.4.2) via an easement under section 7(2) of the Conservation Act ( 1987).
If proposals contained in this report are implemented, DOC will regularly require access up the Matukituki Valley. It is not considered reasonable to attempt to attain as of right, public access over this route as it is located within the heart of an intensive farming operation.
Proposal 4.4.2: Round Hill Spur
That legal public foot access and vehicle access for DOC management purposes be secured over a farm track up Round Hill Spur to the boundary of the West Wanaka Conservation Area under a section 7(2) of the Conservation Act (1987) casement. This route is accessed from the marginal strip on an unnamed stream which enters the Matukituki Valley at the base of Round Hill Spur.
This route provides direct access to the West Wanaka Conservation Area. It is a logical route by which to ascend Mount Alta (2339 m.a.s.l). Competent parties can easily gain access to the route from the Wanaka - Mount Aspiring road when river conditions are average to low.
Proposal 4.4.3: West Wanaka Station - Soft Burn - Station
Creek
That legal public foot access be secured over a farm track which ascends into the Soft Burn from the Matukituki Valley, traverses behind Lookout Hill, crosses the headwaters of Station Creek and descends to Lake Wanaka at Cox Bush. It is proposed that this route be legalised under a section 7(2) Conservation Act (1987).
This route provides part of an interesting round trip (return via lake shore route described under Proposal 4.4.4 ) with spectacular views of Lake Wanaka and surrounding mountains. It also enters the West Wanaka Conservation Area at a point which would provide a feasible route to Buchanan Peaks (1905 m.a.s.l).
Proposal 4.4.4: Legal Road: West Wanaka Station to Colquhouns
Flat
Most of this formed track appears to lie on a legal road line. It is proposed that legal public foot, mountain bike and horse access be secured over any sections which do not correspond with the legal road line under a section 7(2) Conservation Act ( 1987) easement. This situation applies to a 1.5 km stretch of track in the vicinity of Colquhouns Flat.
This route provides part of an interesting round trip (return via lake shore route described under Proposal 4.4.4 ) with spectacular views of Lake Wanaka and surrounding mountains. It also enters the West Wanaka Conservation area at a point which would provide a feasible route to Buchanan Peaks ( 1 905 m.a.s.l).
Proposal 4.4.5: Colquhouns Flat to property boundary in
upper Minaret Burn
That legal public foot, mountain bike and horse access and DOC vehicle access for management purposes (as far as track is utilisable) be secured over this farm track under a section 7(2) Conservation Act ( 1987) easement.
In time this route stands to become a popular route into spectacular alpine country at the head of the Minaret Burn, much of which is existing conservation estate. It is important to gain as of right public access into the Minaret Burn, as there is considerable commercial interest in the area Without legal access the area could effectively be used for exclusive commercial use.
Proposal 4.4.6: Upper Rumbling Burn (West Wanaka Conservation
Area) via Daniels Spur.
That legal public foot access be secured over this farm track under a section 7(2) Conservation Act (1987) easement.
In time this route stands to become a popular route into spectacular alpine country at the head of the Rumbling Bum which is part of the West Wanaka Conservation Area It is important to gain as of right public access into the Rumbling Bum as there is considerable commercial interest in the area Without legal access the area could effectively be used for exclusive commercial use.
4.5 Other Matters
4.5.1: Minaret Burn / West Wanaka Conservation Area Boundary Fence.
The current boundary fence between West Wanaka pastoral lease and conservation land in the Minaret Bum is in very poor condition. It is not considered practical to repair or to relocate. While West Wanaka continues with its policy of only running cattle in the Minaret Bum this is not a great problem as they do not graze the upper faces. Comment from the lessees indicates that when sheep were grazed in the area they rarely grazed as high as the retirement fence.
4.5.2: NGO Concerns
The majority of points raised by NGO's have been catered for
in this proposal. Comment on outstanding matters is as follows:
This suggestion has only been adopted where natural values are high. Elsewhere it is considered that the existing 20 metre strip is sufficient to cater for recreational use.
The legal road and formed track are very closely aligned over this section. DOC supports the concept of creating an easement for foot, mountain bike and horse access over sections where the legal road and track are not aligned. Formalising vehicle access is not considered a priority as: (a) This action would not be consistent with DOC policy and (b) As of right vehicle access is not seen as desirable to this area which is readily accessible by boat.
This is not considered a high priority. The hut is not in particularly good condition. Ample good campsites are available in the nearby West Wanaka Conservation Area. Another hut is located within one and a half hours walk further up the valley. This hut is within the West Wanaka Conservation area and is available for public use.
PART 5
ATTACHMENTS
1. REFERENCES
Anderson, A. J. 1980: Towards an Explanation of Protohistoric Social Organisation and Settlement patterns amongst the Southern Ngai Tahu. New Zealand Journal of Archaeology 2:3-23.
Anderson, A. J. 1986: Te Puoho's Last Raid. Otago Heritage Books Dunedin.
Angus, J. H. 1981: Aspiring Settlers. John Mclndoe, Dunedin.
Beazley M. 1994: Wetlands in Danger. Published in association with The World Conservation Union.
Collier K.J, Cooper A.B, Davies-Colley R.J, Rutherford J.C, Smith C.M and Williamson RB. Managing Riparian Zones: A Contribution to Protecting New Zealand's Rivers and Streams. Department of Conservation 1995.
Hamel, Jill 1993: Hawea Pastoral Leases. Unpublished report to the Otago Conservancy of the Department of Conservation.
Molloy J.M end Davis A 1994 Setting Priorities for the Conservation of New Zealand's Threatened Plants and Animals. Second Edition. Department of Conservation 1994.
Mitsch and Gosselink. Wetlands. Published by Van Nostrand New York.
Rogers G.M (1996). Aspects of the Ecology and Conservation of the Threatened Tree Olearia hectorii in New Zealand. New Zealand Journal of Botany Vol 34.
Roxburgh, I. 1977: Wanaka Story. Capper Reprint, Christchurch.
Map 1 Cadastral/Topographic Map
Map 2a Conservation Values - Biological
Map 2b Conservation Values - Landscape and Recreation
Map 3 Recommendations
PROPOSED DESIGNATIONS REPORT:
TENURE REVIEW OF WEST WANAKA PASTORAL LEASE (P203) HELD
BY CG AND JL COCHRANE
UNDER PART 2 CROWN PASTORAL LAND ACT
(FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY)
1. RECOMMENDATIONS
1.1 That the proposals described below be submitted to the CCL's Agent, during the consultation process on the preliminary proposal for this tenure review, as representing the views developed under delegated authority from the Director-General of Conservation. [Note that additional proposals, developed after the initial report is written, may also be put forward at the consultation stage. 1
1.2 Note that statutory consents will be required before the CCL can include (in the preliminary proposal for this tenure review) the designations set out in paragraphs 2.2.1, 2.4.1, 2.5.1, 2.5.2, 2.5.3, 2.5.4, 2.5.5 2.5.6, 2.5.7 and 2.5.8.
1.3 Note that any disposition of land by the Crown will be subject to the relevant provisions of Part IVA Conservation Act.
2. PROPOSALS AND JUSTIFICATION
LAND TO BE RESTORED TO OR RETAINED IN FULL CROWN OWNERSHIP AND CONTROL
2.1.1-3 Round Hill Boundary Adjustments - Three discrete areas which adjoin the West Wanaka Conservation Area are proposed to be restored to full Crown ownership and control as conservation land.
2.1.1 Name: Regenerating Forest South of the Bent Burn.
Existing Status: Pastoral Lease
Authority: s.35(2)(a)(i) CPLA
Proposal That an area of approximately 30 hectares be designated as a conservation area and amalgamated with the West Wanaka Conservation Area and managed by the Department of Conservation for the protection of natural resources.
Description: The area comprises two lobes of regenerating red, silver and mountain beech with some young Halls totara present. Hardwood shrub regeneration includes Fuchsia, wineberry, broadleaf or kapuka, Koromiko mapou and Lancewood Bird life in the area includes bell birds, grey warblers, New Zealand pigeon (kereru), red crowned parakeet (kakariki), fan tails and tom tits.
Justification: The area is characterised by the following significant inhere values:
Areas which alone or collectively sustain the special natural quality and {integrity of the High Country landscape, especially the indigenous component.
The areas in the proposal comprise discrete areas of unprotected lands surrounded by virtually pristine conservation lands. Incorporation into surrounding lands of these areas which support a predominantly native flora and fauna will therefore serve to enhance the integrity of the natural landscape in the mid reaches of the Matukituki Valley.
Habitats of threatened species (including those which are regionally threatened).
New Zealand pigeon (kereru) frequent these areas. This species is a category B threatened species (Molloy and Davis 1994).
Key breeding or feeding sites of fully protected wildlife or sites which are important for other life cycle stages of indigenous or migratory species, or which support species that contribute significantly to the ecological functioning of off-site protected areas.
The Matukituki forest remnants have been described as Sites of Special Wildlife Interest of a moderate ranking by former Wildlife Service.
Areas which make a special contribution to the overall quality, natural functioning and ecological intergrity of signif cant values (e.g. linkages, buffers etc.) whether in their present or potential state.
These areas create valuable links between existing conservation lands which area currently bifurcated by pastoral lease land. The proposal links a sizeable area of beech forest (conservation land) north of Round Hill Spur with a continuous stand of forest which extends into the headwaters of the Matukituki catchments in the heart of Mount Aspiring National Park;. The areas proposed for restoration to full Crown ownership have little farming value. This proposal represents a logical adjustment of boundaries between conservation and farmland.
Significant Inherent Values Associated With Recreational Resources:
Settings of high natural or historical value for outdoor recreational opportunities in the High Country.
As part of larger tracts of conservation land in the adjoining Mount Alta and West Wanaka Conservation Areas these areas represent an exceptional setting for outdoor recreational activities including tramping and hunting.
Management and Boundary Issues:
This proposal will incur little extra management on the Department as the additional areas will be managed as part of an extensive area of forest already within the public Conservation Estate.
(a) Fencing. Density of regeneration appears to be preventing or discouraging grazing. Little would be gained from fencing the amended boundaries unless funds are obtained to fence approximately 9km of unfenced boundary between conservation land and farmland on the Matukituki River Flats above Round Hill Spur and Trig LL.
(b) Burning Liaison with the Department will be necessary when adjoining land is burnt; this is no different than the current situation where all burning in this area is within 1km of a State Area.
(c) Pest Control. Incorporation of these areas into adjoining conservation lands will not significantly affect current pest control obligations in the area.
2.1.2 Name: "Johns Paddock" and Adjoining Land North of Round Hill Hut
Existing Status: Pastoral Lease
Authority: s.35(2)(a)(i) CPLA
Proposal: That an area of approximately 100 hectares be designated as land to be restored to full Crown ownership as a Conservation Area, amalgamated with the West Wanaka Conservation area and managed by the Department of Conservation for the protection of natural resources.
Description: The lower eastern most component of this area is regenerating silver and mountain beech with some young Halls totara present. Hardwood shrub regeneration includes Fuchsia, wineberry, broadleaf or kapuka Koromiko mapou and Lancewood Bird life in the area includes bell birds, grey warblers, New Zealand wood pigeon (kereru), red crowned parakeet (kakariki), fan tails and tom tits. Proposed conservation land includes an area of tussockland/ subalpine shrubland known as John's Paddock. This tall tussockland lies above bush line on the north side of an unnamed creek to the north of Round Hill Spur.
Justification: The area is characterised by the following significant inherent values:
Areas which alone or collectively sustain the special natural quality and integrity of the High* Country landscape, especially the indigenous component.
The proposal comprises a discrete area of unprotected land surrounded by virtually pristine conservation lands. Formal protection would enhance the integrity of the natural landscape in the mid reaches of the Matukituki Valley.
Habitats of threatened species (including those which are regionally threatened).
New Zealand pigeon (kereru) frequent these areas. This species is a category B threatened species (Molloy and Davis 1994).
Areas which make a special contribution to the overall quality, natural functioning and ecological integrity of significant values (e.g. Iinkages, buffers etc.) whether in their present or potential state.
The area creates a valuable link; between existing conservation lands which area currently bifurcated by pastoral lease land. the proposal links a sizeable area of beech forest (conservation land) to the north of Round Hill Spur with a continuous stand of forest which extends into the headwaters of the Matukituki catchments in the heart of Mount Aspiring National Park. The area proposed for retention in full Crown ownership has little farming value. This proposal represents a logical adjustment of boundaries between conservation and farmland.
Key breeding or feeding sites of fully protected wildlife or sites which are important for other life cycle stages of indigenous or migratory species, or which support species tat that significantly to the ecological functioning of off-site protected areas.
The Matukituki forest remnants have been described as Sites of Special Wildlife Interest of a moderate ranking by former Wildlife Service.
Significant Inherent Values Associated With Recreational Resources
The land is characterised areas that have the following significant inherent values:
Settings of high natural or historical value for outdoor recreational opportunities in the High Country.
As part of larger tracts of conservation land in the adjoining Mount Alta and West Wanaka Conservation Areas the area represents an exceptional setting for outdoor recreational activities including tramping hunting.
Management and Boundary Issues:
This proposal will incur little extra management on the Department as the additional areas will be managed as part of an extensive area of forested conservation land.
(a) Fencing. Little would be gained from fencing the amended boundaries unless funds are obtained to fence approximately 9km of unfenced boundary between conservation land and farmland on the Matukituki River Flats above Round Hill Spur and Trig LL. An existing fence at the top of Johns Paddock will become redundant and should be removed.
(b) Burning. Liaison with the Department will be necessary when adjoining land is burnt; this is no different than the current situation where all burning in this area is within 1km of a State Area.
(c) Pest Control. Incorporation of the proposal into adjoining conservation lands will not significantly affect current pest control obligations in the area.
2.1.3 Name: Bush Behind Round Hill Hut.
Existing Status: Pastoral Lease
Authority: s.35(2)(a)(i) CPLA
Proposal: That approximately 5 hectares be designated as land to be restored to full Crown ownership and control as a conservation area and amalgamated with the West Wanaka Conservation Area to be managed by the Department of Conservation for the protection of natural resources.
Description: The land adjoins forest covered conservation lands. Much of the area is regenerating red, silver and mountain beech with some young Halls totara present. Hardwood shrub regeneration includes Fuchsia, wineberry, broadleaf or kapuka, Koromiko mapou and Lancewood. Bird life in the area includes bell birds, grey warblers, New Zealand pigeon (kereru), red crowned parakeet (kakariki), fan tails and tom tits.
Justification: The area is characterised by the following Significant inherent values:
Areas which alone or collectively sustain the special natural quality and integrity of the High Country landscape, especially the indigenous component.
The proposal comprises a discrete area of unprotected lands surrounded by virtually pristine conservation lands. Incorporation of the area which supports a predominantly native flora and fauna into surrounding conservation land will serve to enhance the integrity of the natural landscape in the mid reaches of the Matukituki Valley.
Habitats of threatened species (including those which are regionally threatened).
New Zealand pigeon (kereru) frequent these areas. This species is a category B threatened species (Molloy and Davis 1994).
Areas which make a special contribution to the overall quality, natural functioning and ecological integrity of significant values (e.g. linkages, buffers etc.)) whether in their present or potential state.
The area creates a valuable link between existing conservation lands which area currently bifurcated by pastoral lease land used for farming. The proposal links a sizeable area of beech forest (conservation land) to the north of Round Hill Spur with a continuous stand of forest which extends into the headwaters of the Matukituki catchments in the heart of Mount Aspiring National Park. The area proposed for restoration to full Crown ownership has little farming value. This proposal represents a logical adjustment of boundaries between conservation and farmland.
Significant Inherent Values Associated With Recreational Resources
The land is characterised areas that have the following significant inherent values:
Settings of High natural or historical value for outdoor recreational opportunities in the High Country.
As part of larger tracts of conservation land in the adjoining Mount Alta and West Wanaka Conservation Areas the area represents an exceptional setting for outdoor recreational activities including tramping and hunting.
Management and Boundary Issues:
This proposal will incur little extra management on the Department as the additional areas will be managed as part of an extensive area of forested conservation land.
(a) Fencing. Little would be gained from fencing the amended boundaries unless funds are obtained to fence adjoining forests within the public conservation estate which have an unfenced boundary.
(b) Burning. Liaison with the Department will be necessary when adjoining land is burnt; this is no different than the current situation where all burning in this area is within 1km of a State Area.
(c) Pest Control. Incorporation of the area into adjoining conservation lands will not significantly affect current pest control obligations in the area.
2.1.4 Name: Tongue Spur Bush and tussocklands above Retirement Fence
Existing Status: Pastoral Lease
Authority: s.35(2)(a)(i) CPLA
Proposal: That approximately 270 hectares be designated as land to be restored to full Crown ownership and control as a conservation area and amalgamated with the Mount Alta Conservation Area and managed by the Department of Conservation for the protection of natural resources.
Description: The area comprises an altitudinal sequence from the Matukituki Valley floor to the lower boundary of Mount Alta Conservation Area) at ~ 1100m. The proposal includes a band of tussocklands above a retirement fence at lOOOm which are within the pastoral lease.
A fan at the base of Tongue Spur contains seven Olearia hectorii trees growing in association with the narrower leaved O. lineata.
Mature forest is confined to the two major gully systems and comprises a mixture of silver, mountain and red beech with a scattering of Halls totara trees. Beech regeneration is vigorous on the margins.
The area above the retirement fence comprises intact tall tussocklands. The upper margins of the beech forest are vigorously expanding. In addition to beech saplings, mountain ribbonwood and broadleaf are present. Above the forest margins, the area comprises a native grassland/shrubland dominated by native species including prickly shield fern, narrow-leaved snow tussock, giant Spaniard and turpentine scrub.
Justification: The land is characterised by areas that have the following significant inherent values:
Significant Inherent Values Associated With Natural Resources
Areas which alone or collectively sustain the special natural quality and integrity of the High Country landscape, especially the indigenous component.
The mid to lower reaches of the Matukituki Valley have been extensively modified through Polynesian burning and more recently by pastoral activities. This proposal comprises an attractive sequence of essentially native vegetation extending from the valley floor and upwards into the Mount Alta Conservation Area.
Areas which currently meet the Protected Natural Area Programme (PNAP) criteria for protection as priority natural areas (e.g. RAPs), or sites of special wildlife significance ranking as "outstanding" to "moderate/high", or wetlands of ecological and representative importance included in the WERI inventory.
While the Wanaka Ecological District has not been subject to a Protected Natural Areas Program survey, the area ranks between medium and high for most criteria used for assessing the conservation value of a natural area. These criteria and approximate rankings are as follows:
Representativeness: HIGH
Diversity: HIGH
Rarity: HIGH
Naturalness: HIGH
Long Term Ecological Viability: HIGH
Size and Shape: MEDIUM-HIGH
Buffering, Surrounding Landscape and Boundaries: MEDIUM
Habitats of threatened species (including those which are regionally threatened).
O. hectorii is a category "A" threatened plant species (Molloy & Davis 1994) meaning that it has the highest priority ranking for conservation action. Rogers ( 1996) noted that reservation proposals for 0. hectorii must consider the need for large areas to span the spatial and temporal patterns of landscape disturbance that enable the establishment of new populations. For this reason, protecting this species as part of an intact altitudinal sequence is seen as being particularly important. Protection of 0. hectorii is also important in order to sustain insect species which depend exclusively on this species for their survival.
Areas which make a special contribution to the overall quality, natural functioning and ecological integrity of significant values (e.g. linkages, buffers etc.) whether in their present or potential state.
This proposal represents a rare opportunity to protect an altitudinal sequence of native vegetation and associated fauna. The sequence encompasses an endangered tree species on a valley floor, a fan system, a montane beech forest, sub-alpine shrublands, alpine tussock grasslands and high alpine vegetation close to the permanent snow line in the vicinity of Buchanan Peaks.
Type localities and habitats of species and communities which are at their distributional limits and/or endemic or which have specialised habitat requirements in the High Country, and species, communities habitats or ecosystems which are uncommon and/or endemic in the ecological district.
O. hectorii is an important host for native insects which depend on this host for their survival. One moth species which breeds on this plant, is possibly endemic to the Matukituki Valley. O.hectorii is thought to have once been widespread in non forested areas - its distribution is now extremely scattered.
Key breeding or feeding sites of fully protected wildlife or sites which are important for other life cycle stages of indigenous or migratory species, or which support species that contribute significantly to the ecological functioning of off -site protected areas.
The Matukituki forest remnants have been described as Sites of Special Wildlife Interest of a moderate ranking by former Wildlife Service.
Management and Boundary Issues:
Fencing. Approximately 500 metres of fencing will be required to exclude grazing animals from the fan containing the O. hectorii trees. The balance of the area does not require additional fencing as stock are excluded from Tongue Spur by a combination of terrain and existing fencing which is in good condition.
Research by Management. As O. hectorii does not appear to be naturally regenerating, an adaptive management approach will be essential for this area. Destocking may prevent juvenile plants from being grazed; on the other hand competition from ungrazed exotic grasses may have an equally negative impact. Periodic stocking, hand weeding or spraying may be required to restore the viability of this species. The reservation of several stands provides a valuable opportunity to monitor the effects of different protection regimes.
Weed and Pest Control. Apart from issues relating to O. hectorii, weed and pest problems are not significant over the balance of the area. Periodic possum control may be necessary in conjunction with West Wanaka Station and with programmes on nearby conservation lands.
Matukituki Wetlands
Three wetland areas are proposed for retention in full Crown ownership as conservation areas. For the purpose of this report these have been named North Matukituki Wetland (proposal 2.1.5), Mid Matukituki (proposal 2.1.6) and South Matukituki Wetland (proposal 2.2.7).
The Otago Conservancy Conservation Management Strategy document lists as a stated objective for the Matukituki Valley Special Place that an "increase in the area of wetland under formal protection will be sought".
2.1.5 Name: North Matukituki Wetland
Existing Status: Pastoral Lease
Authority: s.35(2)(a)(ii) CPLA
Proposal That this wetland on the Matukituki Valley floor be designated as a Government Purpose Reserve for the purpose of wildlife management to be managed by the Department of Conservation under Section 22(2) Reserves Act (1977). The proposal covers approximately 15 hectares.
Description: The wetland which is an important wildlife habitat is a remnant of a large wetland system that once covered much of the Matukituki Valley. The hydrology appears to be essentially controlled by natural processes, despite substantial modification to surrounding lands.
The area contains a great diversity of insect fauna most of which is native.
The wetland contains a significant component of native vegetation; especially in core areas with permanent standing water and those which are frequently submersed for extended periods.
Justification: The land is characterised by areas that have the following Significant inherent values:
Areas which sustain the most culturally valued attributes (e.g. Maori scenic, aesthetic, recreational and historic) and their context within a natural High Country landscape.
The wetland is an attractive component of the Matukituki Valley landscape and provides an insight into the character of the area prior to widespread drainage of river flats for pastoral purposes.
Areas which currently meet the Protected Natural Area Programme (PNAP) criteria for protection as priority natural areas (e.g. RAPs), or sites of special wildlife significance ranking as "outstanding" to "moderate/high, or wetlands of ecological and representative importance included in the WERI inventory.
This series of wetlands are listed in the WERI inventory as a site of local significance.
Type localities and habitats of species and communities which are at their distributional limits and/or endemic or which have specialised *habitat requirements in the High Country, and species, communities habitats or ecosystems which are uncommon and/or endemic in the ecological district.
Collectively with the South and Mid Matukituki wetlands these areas comprise the largest wetland in the Wanaka Ecological district. There is a long history of wetland modification in New Zealand. Only 8% of pre European lowland wetlands now remain. Wetlands now occupy less than 2% of the total land area of New Zealand. Drainage continues today. 14% of remaining lowland wetlands in the North Island were drained between 1979 and 1983. New Zealand as a signatory of the RAMSAR convention has an obligation to protect remaining viable wetlands.
Key breeding or feeding sites of fully protected wildlife or sites which are important for other life cycle stages of indigenous or migratory species, or which support species that contribute significantly to the ecological functioning of off-site protected areas.
The wetland is a breeding and feeding environment for a host of native and introduced bird life. The presence of moulting paradise shelduck gives the area a moderate to high ranking under criteria used by the previous Wildlife Service in their NZ Wildlife Service National Habitat Register.
Areas which make a special contribution to the overall quality, natural functioning and ecological integrity of significant values (e.g. linkages, buffers etc.) whether {n their present or potential state.
In conjunction with the South and Mid Matukituki Wetlands the diversity of native bird, insect, aquatic and plant life qualifies the wetland as having regional conservation significance. Despite being physically separated, the areas were once part of one large wetland complex. Considerable biological interaction (e.g. movement of birds) continues to occur between the three wetlands proposed for protection.
Significant Inherent Values Associated With Recreational Resources
Settings of high natural or historical value for outdoor recreational opportunities in the High Country.
The wetland is well known as a freshwater fishery- and for gamebird hunting.
Management and Boundary Issues:
Public Access. As of right public entry into the area will be confined to access from the Matukituki Riverbed (Crown land) and marginal strip. In practice most of those wishing to gain access to the wetlands (primarily gamebird hunters) will seek permission from West Wanaka Station and use the main farm track up the Matukituki Valley.
Fencing. The wetland is ring fenced. A narrow channel which flows from the wetland to the Matukituki is fenced to exclude stock. This channel should be included within the reserve.
Water Levels. No alteration of water levels is recommended.
Problem Plants/Animals: Despite the presence of exotic plants and bird species, the area essentially functions as a natural ecosystem which provide a valuable habitat for native plants and fauna.
Ngai Tahu Aspirations. The Ngai Tahu places a high value on traditional food sources, particularly in the Wanaka area. If the wetland is designated as a reserve, the Department may face some difficult management decisions relating to traditional harvesting, commercial use of the eel fishery by non Ngai Tahu interests and game bird hunting and fishing by the general public. If an appropriate consultation process is undertaken, nature conservation, Ngai Tahu interests and recreational shooters all stand to gain from protection and restoration of the wetlands. Initial dialogue with Ngai Tahu indicates that the recommended form of protection is compatible with their interest over the wetland.
2.1.6 Name: Mid Matukituki Wetland
Existing Status: Pastoral Lease
Authority: s.35(2)(a)(ii) CPLA
Proposal: That this wetland on the Matukituki Valley floor is designated as a Government Purpose Reserve for the purpose of wildlife management to be managed by the Department of Conservation under Section 22(2) Reserves Act (1977). The proposal covers approximately 60 hectares. There is to be no provision for grazing the area following completion of tenure review.
Description: The wetland which is an important wildlife habitat is a remnant of a large wetland system that once covered much of the Matukituki Valley. The hydrology appears to be essentially controlled by natural processes, despite substantial modification to surrounding lands.
The area contains a great diversity of insect fauna most of which is native.
The wetland contains a significant component of native vegetation; especially in core areas with permanent standing water and those which are frequently submersed for extended periods.
Justification: The land is characterised by areas that have the following significant inherent values:
Areas which sustain the most culturally valued attributes (e.g. Maori scenic, aesthetic, recreational and historic) and their context within a natural High Country landscape.
The wetland is an attractive component of the Matukituki Valley landscape and provides an insight into the character of the area prior to widespread drainage of river flats for pastoral purposes.
Areas which currently meet the Protected Natural Area Programme (PNAP) criteria for protection as priority natural areas (e.g. RAPs), or sites of special wildlife significance ranking as "outstanding" to "moderate/high', or wetlands of ecological and representative importance included in the WERI inventory.
This series of wetlands are listed in the WERI inventory as a site of local significance.
Type localities and habitats of species and communities which are at their distributional limits and/or endemic or which have specialised habitat requirements in the High Country, and species, communities habitats or ecosystems which* are uncommon and/or endemic in the ecological district.
Collectively with the South and North Matukituki wetlands these areas comprise the largest wetland in the Wanaka Ecological district. There is a long history of wetland modification in New Zealand. Only 8% of pre European lowland wetlands now remain. Wetlands now occupy less than 2% of the total land area of New Zealand. Drainage continues today. 14% remaining lowland wetlands in the North Island were drained between 1979 and 1983. New Zealand as a signatory of the RAMSAR convention has an obligation to protect remaining viable wetlands.
Key breeding or feeding sites of fully protected wildlife or sites which are important for other life cycle stages of indigenous or migratory species, or which support species that contribute significantly to the ecological functioning of off-site protected areas.
The wetland is a breeding and feeding environment for a host of native and introduced bird life. The presence of moulting paradise shelduck gives the area a moderate to high ranking under criteria used by the previous Wildlife Service in their NZ Wildlife Service National Habitat Register.
Areas which make a special contribution to the overall quality, natural functioning and ecological integrity of significant values (e.g. linkages, buffers etc.) whether in their present or potential state.
The wetland comprises the most extensive lowland wetland in the Wanaka Ecological District. The diversity of native bird, insect, aquatic and plant life qualifies the wetlands as having regional conservation significance. Despite being physically separated, the areas were once part of one large wetland complex. Considerable biological interaction (e.g. movement of birds) continues to occur between the three wetlands proposed for protection.
Significant Inherent Values Associated With Recreational Resources
Settings of high natural or historical value for outdoor recreational opportunities in the High Country.
The wetland is well known as a freshwater fishery and for gamebird hunting.
Management and Boundary Issues:
Public Access. As of right public entry into the area will be confined to access from the Matukituki Riverbed (Crown land) and marginal strip. An easement for public access over land Iying between the marginal strip and the wetland is proposed (see proposal 2.5.4). In practice most of those wishing to gain access to the wetlands (primarily gamebird hunters) will seek permission from West Wanaka Station and use the main farm track up the Matukituki Valley.
Boundaries have been designed to ensure that all water inflows are protected and enter the wetland rather than being directed away from it.
Fencing. The wetland is fenced close to recommended reserve boundaries.
Water Levels. A key aspect to managing this wetland will be the restoration of water levels in order to eliminate existing fluctuations and to ensure that the core area is wet on a more permanent basis. The initial step for designing a suitable restoration programme would be to undertake a levels survey in order to ensure that any dams constructed do not affect surrounding farmland.
Problem Plants/Animals: Despite the presence of exotic plants and bird species, the area essentially functions as a natural ecosystem which provide a valuable habitat for native plants and fauna.
Ngai Tahu Aspirations The Ngai Tahu places a high value on traditional food sources, particularly in the Wanaka area. If the wetland is designated as a reserve, the Department may face some difficult management decisions relating to traditional harvesting, commercial use of the eel fishery by non Ngai Tahu interests and game bird hunting and fishing by the general public. If an appropriate consultation process is undertaken, nature conservation, Ngai Tahu interests and recreational shooters all stand to gain from protection and restoration of the wetlands. Initial dialogue with Ngai Tahu indicates that the recommended form of protection is compatible with their interest over the wetland.
2.1.7 Name: South Matukituki Wetland
Existing Status: Pastoral Lease
Authority: s.35(2)(a)(ii) CPLA
Proposal That this wetland on the Matukituki Valley floor is designated as a Government Purpose Reserve for the purpose of wildlife management to be managed by the Department of Conservation under Section 22(2) Reserves Act (1977). The area covers approximately 230 hectares.
Description: The wetland which is an important wildlife habitat is a remnant of a large wetland system that once covered much of the Matukituki Valley. The hydrology of this area appears to be essentially controlled by natural processes, despite substantial modification to surrounding lands.
The area contains a great diversity of insect fauna most of which is native.
The wetland contains a Significant component of native vegetation; especially in core areas with permanent standing water and those which are frequently submersed for extended periods.
Justification: The land is characterised by areas that have the following significant inherent values:
Areas which sustain the most culturally valued attributes (e.g. Maori, scenic, aesthetic, recreational and historic) and their context within a natural High Country landscape.
The wetland is an attractive component of the Matukituki Valley landscape and provides an insight into the character of the area prior to widespread drainage of river flats for pastoral purposes.
Areas which currently meet the Protected Natural Area Programme (PNAP) criteria for protection as priority natural areas (e.g. RAPs), or sites of special wildlife significance ranking as "outstanding" to "moderate/big*, or wetlands of ecological and representative importance included in the WERI inventory.
This series of wetlands are listed in the WERI inventory as a site of local significance.
Type localities and habitats of species and communities which are at their distributional limits and/or endemic or which have specialised habitat requirements in the High Country, and species, communities habitats or ecosystems which are uncommon and/or endemic in the ecological distinct.
Collectively with the Mid and North Matukituki wetlands the area comprises the largest wetland in the Wanaka Ecological district. There is a long history of wetland modification in New Zealand. Only 8% of pre European lowland wetlands now remain. Wetlands now occupy less than 2% of the total land area of New Zealand. Drainage continues today. 14% of remaining lowland wetlands in the North Island were drained between 1979 and 1983. New Zealand as a signatory of the RAMSAR convention has an obligation to protect remaining viable wetlands.
The Department's Otago Conservation Management Strategy document lists as a stated objective for the Matukituki Valley Special Place that an "increase in the area of wetland under formal protection will be sought".
Key breeding or feeding sites of fully protected wildlife or sites which are important for other life cycle stages of indigenous or migratory species, or which support species tat contribute significantly to the ecological functioning of off-site protected areas.
The wetland is a breeding and feeding environment for a host of native and introduced bird life. The presence of moulting paradise shelduck gives the area a moderate to high ranking under criteria used by the previous Wildlife Service in their NZ Wildlife Service National Habitat Register.
Areas which make a social contribution to the overall quality, natural functioning and ecological integrity of significant values (e.g. linkages, buffers etc.) whether in their present or potential state.
The wetland comprises the most extensive lowland wetland in the Wanaka Ecological District. The diversity of native bird, insect, aquatic and plant life qualifies the wetlands as having regional conservation significance. Despite being physically separated, the areas were once part of one large wetland complex. Considerable biological interaction (e.g. movement of birds) continues to occur between the three wetlands proposed for protection.
Significant Inherent Values Associated with Recreational Resources
Settings of high natural or historical value for outdoor recreational opportunities in the High Country.
The wetland is well known as a freshwater fishery and for gamebird hunting.
Management and Boundary Issues:
Public Access. As of right public entry into the area will be confined to access from the Matukituki Riverbed (Crown land) and marginal strip. An easement for public access over land Iying between the marginal strip and the wetland is proposed (see proposal 2.5.6). In practice most of those wishing to gain access to the wetlands (primarily gamebird hunters) will seek permission from West Wanaka Station and use the main farm track; up the Matukituki Valley.
Inflows. The boundaries have been designed to ensure that all water inflows are protected and enter the wetland rather than being directed away from it.
Fencing. The wetland is currently partially fenced. An estimated 3000m of fencing will be required to exclude stock. The upper boundary of the wetland would not require fencing if protection of adjoining shrublands (recommendation 2.1.9) is successfully negotiated. Recommended management of this wetland centres around protection of water inflows and restoring the water level so as to enhance wetland values. As with the North Matukituki Wetland, a key aspect to managing the area will be the restoration of water levels in order to minimise existing fluctuations and to ensure that the core area is wet on a more permanent basis. The initial step for designing a suitable restoration programme would be to undertake a levels survey so as to ensure that any dams constructed do not effect surrounding farmland. Between the wetland and the river is a block of higher ground which is cultivated. This is not part of the reserve proposal and the boundaries have been sited in recognition of farming values present. The boundary has been sited to protect Coprosma and matagouri shrublands on the lower hillslopes and below the farm track.
Problem Plants/Animals. Removal (by spraying ) of approximately 15 crack willow trees from the margin the wetland should be a priority. Despite the presence of exotic plants and bird species, the area essentially functions as natural ecosystem, providing a valuable habitat for native plants, insects and fauna.
Ngai Tahu Aspirations. The Ngai Tahu places a high value on traditional food sources, particularly in the Wanaka area. If the wetland is designated as a reserve, the Department may face some difficult management decisions relating to traditional harvesting, commercial use of the eel fishery by non Ngai Tahu interests and game bird hunting and fishing by the general public. If an appropriate consultation process is undertaken,, nature conservation, Ngai Tahu interests and recreational shooters all stand to gain from protection and restoration of the wetlands. Initial dialogue with Ngai Tahu indicates that the recommended form of protection is compatible with their interest over the wetland.
Farm Access. The main farm track which provides farm access to the Matukituki Flats passes between this wetland and shrublands recommended for protection in proposal 2.1.9. This thin corridor of land is proposed for freeholding.
2.1.8 Name: Olearia hectorii Shrubland Remnant immediately to the north of the South Matukituki Wetland.
Existing Status: Pastoral Lease.
Authority: s.35(2)(a)(i) CPLA
Proposal: That approximately 4 hectares be designated as land to be restored to full Crown ownership and control as a conservation area to be managed by the Department of Conservation for the protection of natural resources.
Description: Alluvial fan containing eight mature O. hectorii trees surrounded by grazed pasture.
Justification The land is characterised by areas that have the following Significant inherent values:
Significant Inherent Values Associated With Natural Resources
Habitats of threatened species (including those which are regionally threatened).
O. hectorii is a category "A" threatened plant species (Molloy & Davis 1994) meaning that it has the highest priority ranking for conservation action. Rogers (1996) noted that reservation proposals for O. hectorii must consider the need for large areas to span the spatial and temporal patterns of landscape disturbance that enable the establishment of new populations. For this reason, protecting this species as part of an intact altitudinal sequence is seen as being particularly important. Protection of O. hectorii is also important in order to sustain insect species which depend exclusively on this species for their survival.
Type localities and habitats of species and communities which are at their distributional limits and/or endemic or which have specialised habitat requirements in the High Country, and species communities habitats or ecosystems which are uncommon and/or endemic in the ecological district.
O. hectorii is an important host for native insects which depend on this host for their survival. One moth species which breeds on this plant, is possibly endemic to the Matukituki Valley.
Management Considerations:
Fencing: 500m required.
Research By Management. O. hectorii on the alluvial fan does not appear to be naturally regenerating. An adaptive management approach for this area will be essential. Destocking may prevent juvenile plants from being grazed; on the other hand competition from a sward of exotic grasses may have an equally negative impact. Periodic stocking, hand weeding or spraying may be necessary to restore the viability of this species. The reservation of several stands provides a valuable opportunity to monitor the effects of different management regimes.
2.1.9 Name: Faces above West Wanaka Lagoons.
Existing Status: Pastoral Lease
Authority: s.35(2)(a)(i) CPLA
Proposal: That an area of approximately 55 hectares be designated as land to be restored to full Crown ownership and control as a conservation area to be managed by the Department of Conservation for the protection of natural resources.
Description: Comprises steep bluffy faces at the south end of the South Matukituki Wetland. The area is vegetated by diverse shrublands containing 0. hectorii, including what appear to be quite young plants. Twenty-six O. hectorii were counted in this area. Other shrub species growing on these faces include O. lineata, O. odorata, koromiko, broadleaf, Aristotelia fruticosa, lancewood, cabbage trees, fuchsia, kohuhu and native broom. Rocky bluffs are vegetated by Blechnum fern and, in some inaccessible locations, mountain anise is present (on which the uncommon mountain anise moth was noted).
Justification: The land is characterised by areas that have the following significant inherent values:
Areas which alone or collectively sustain the special natural quality and integrity of the High Country landscape, especially the indigenous component.
The mid to lower reached of the Matukituki Valley have been extensively modified through Polynesian burning and more recently by pastoral activities. This proposal comprises an attractive area of essentially regenerating native vegetation which provides an attractive natural backdrop to wetlands proposed for protection under proposal 2.1.7 and to the intensively farmed Matukituki Flats.
Habitats of threatened species (including those which are regionally threatened).
O. hectorii is a category "A" threatened plant species (Molloy & Davis 1994) meaning that it has the highest priority ranking for conservation action. Rogers (1996) noted that reservation proposals for O. hectorii must consider the need for large areas to span the spatial and temporal patterns of landscape disturbance that enable the establishment of new populations.
It is possible that the O. hectorii on the bluffs and faces of this area is the only viable population of this endangered species in the Matukituki Valley. There are a number of possible explanations for this; the most likely being that it is one of the few areas where disturbance is predominantly from natural events ie rockfall, slips and perhaps occasional fire The O. hectorii present on the adjacent fan are one of the better examples of mature trees in the valley.
The balance of the shrublands are a valuable example of a vegetation type which would have been common in the valley prior to human disturbance.
Areas which make a special contribution to the overall quality, natural functioning and ecological integrity of significant values (e.g. Iinkages, buffers etc.) whether in their present or potential state.
The protection of a continuous area comprising the West Wanaka lagoons (proposal 2.1.7), and series of bluffs and shrub covered faces (see also proposal 2.5.1(c)) will comprise an important tract of protected land where natural processes will dominate. This is particularly important for hydrological processes in the wetlands.
Areas which currently meet the Protected Natural Area Programme (PNAP) criteria for protection as priority natural areas (e.g. RAPs or sites of special wildlife significance ranking as "outstanding" to "moderate/high", or wetlands of ecological and representative importance included in the WERI inventory.
While the Wanaka Ecological District has not been subject to a Protected Natural Areas Program survey, the area ranks between medium and high for most criteria used for assessing the conservation value of a natural area. These criteria and approximate rankings are as follows:
Representativeness: HIGH
Diversity: HIGH
Rarity: HIGH
Naturalness: HIGH
Long Term Ecological Viability: MEDIUM - HIGH
Size and Shape: MEDIUM - HIGH
Buffering, Surrounding Landscape and Boundaries: HIGH
Type localities and habitats of species and communities which are at their distributional limits and/or endemic or which have specialised habitat requirements in the High Country, and species, communities habitats or ecosystems which are uncommon and/or endemic: in the ecological district.
O. hectorii, O. odorata and Gingidia montana are host to a range of unique, and in some cases, rare insect life. This is not a typical site for O. hectorii, the presence of juvenille plants makes it a particularly important habitat for protection.
Management and Boundary Issues:
Fencing: The area is stock proof by virtue of its topography and will therefore not require fencing.
Problem Plants. Weeds are not a serious problem in the area. It is considered that under a nil stocking and no burning regime that native shrub regeneration will dominate over exotic species.
Problem Animals. Animal pests are not considered a serious problem in the area. However it is important that if this proposal proceeds, that the Department is able to work in with West Wanaka Station over periodic possum control.
2.1.10 Name: West Wanaka Bridge Bluff Bush/Shrublands
Existing Status: Pastoral Lease
Authority: s.35(2)(a)(i) CPLA
Proposal: That approximately 40 hectares be designated as land to be restored to full Crown ownership and control as a conservation area to be managed by the Department of Conservation for the protection of natural resources. Grazing is to cease on completion of the tenure review.
Description: This area which lies to the west of the West Wanaka road after crossing the Matukituki Bridge contains important botanical values. In addition to species described as being present in shrublands elsewhere on the property, the area contains two mature matai trees (male and female), Arthropodium candidium, (a native lily), Olearia hectorii, O. fragrantissima and mountain beech along the river margins.
Justification: The land is characterised areas that have the following significant inherent values:
Areas which alone or collectively sustain the special natural quality and integrity of the High Country landscape, especially the indigenous component.
The mid to lower reached of the Matukituki Valley have been extensively modified through Polynesian burning and more recently by pastoral activities. This proposal comprises an area of native bush which provides an attractive natural backdrop to the lower reaches of the Matukituki River.
Habitats of threatened species (including those which are regionally threatened).
O. hectorii is a category "A" threatened plant species (Molloy & Davis 1994) meaning that it has the highest priority ranking for conservation action. Rogers (1996) noted that reservation proposals for O. hectorii must consider the need for large areas to span the spatial and temporal patterns of landscape disturbance that enable the establishment of new populations.
O. fragrantissima is a category B threatened species which makes it a second priority for conservation action.
Arthoropodium candidium is described as being scattered but seldom common.
Areas which currently meet the Protected Natural Area Programme (PNAP) criteria for protection as priority natural areas (e.g. RAPs), or sites of special wildlife signif ificance ranking as "outstanding" to "moderate/high', or wetlands of ecological and representative importance included in the WERI inventory.
While the Wanaka Ecological District has not been subject to a Protected Natural Areas Program survey, the area ranks between medium and high for most criteria used for assessing the conservation value of a natural area. These criteria and approximate rankings are as follows:
Representativeness: HIGH
Diversity: HIGH
Rarity: HIGH
Naturalness: HIGH
Long Term Ecological Viability: MEDIUM-HIGH
Size and Shape: MEDIUM
Buffering, Surrounding Landscape and Boundaries: LOW-MEDIUM
Type localities and habitats of species and communities which are at their distributional limits and/or endemic or which have specialised habitat requirements in the High Country, and species, communities habitats or ecosystems which are uncommon and/or endemic in the ecological district.
The two matai trees are probably the eastern most of their kind in Central Otago and constitute evidence that this species was once more widespread. These two trees, a single tree near the mouth of the Minaret Burn and two trees at Diamond Lake are probably the only matai trees in the Lakes Ecological Region. Formal protection is therefore extremely important, as is the retention of areas which may provide a suitable habitat for younger replacement trees to establish.
Management and Boundary Issues
(a) Fencing. Approximately 1km of fencing on the top boundary would make this area essentially inaccessible to stock as a combination of existing fencing and bluffs excludes domestic stock from the balance of the area.
(b) Road Works. Recent roading work completed on behalf of the Queenstown Lakes District Council effectively created a ponding area during wet weather at the base of the matai trees. It appears that the problem has since been fixed; however the council should be made aware that DOC should be consulted if and when future road works are undertaken.
(c) Problem Animals. Animal pests are not considered a serious problem for the flora in the area. However it is important that if negotiations for protection are successful, that the Department is able to work in with West Wanaka Station over periodic possum control.
(d) Problem Plants. There are no immediate major weed threats; however given the limited size of the proposed conservation area it is somewhat vulnerable to weed invasion.
2.1.11 Name: Lakeside Conservation Area between Station Creek and the Rumbling Burn.
Existing Status: Pastoral Lease
Authority: s.35(2)(a)(i) CPLA
Proposal: That approximately 25 hectares of land Iying immediately above an existing lakeside marginal strip be designated as land to be restored to full Crown ownership and control as a conservation area to be managed by the Department of Conservation for the protection of natural resources.
Description: The area extends for approximately 3km along the shores of Lake Wanaka above an existing marginal strip between the mouths of Station Creek and the Rumbling Burn. The upper boundary is an existing farm track.
Vegetation comprises a mix of native species including southern rata, kowhai, Halls totara, koromiko, cabbage trees, kanaka, manuka, lancewood, broadleaf, mountain akeake and tree daisy.
Justification: The land is characterised by are significant inherent values:
Areas which alone or collectivelly sustain the special natural quality and integrity of the High Country landscape, especially the indigenous component.
This area represents one of the few parts of the Lake Wanaka shoreline which has been largely protected from fire and grazing. The forest/shrubland remnants provide an insight into the character of the area prior to an increase in the frequency of fire associated with Maori and European settlement. The remnants add to the areas outstanding landscape and contribute to the setting for lakeside recreation.
Type localities and habitats of species and communities which are at their distributional limits and/or endemic or which *aye specialised habitat requirements in the High Country, and species, communities *habitats or ecosystems which are uncommon and/or endemic in the ecological district.
Southern rata is near its eastern distributional limit, being primarily confined to wetter more temperate locations near to and West of the Main Divide.
Management and Boundary Issues
(a) Fencing. These areas will not require fencing as they are mostly inaccessible to stock. In the absence of burning, regeneration reversion to native woody vegetation will continue.
(b) Problem Animals. Some possum control may be beneficial. There is noticeable rata die back which may be a result of possum browsing.
There is a risk of accidental fire from recreational use of the lake margins and from burning of neighbouring lands for pastoral purposes. However the area has received substantial recreational use for many years and no accidental fires have occurred. The vehicle track on the upper margin of the area forms an effective fire break for pastoral burning.
2.1.12 Name: Lake Faces - Rumbling Burn to Minaret Burn.
Existing Status: Pastoral Lease
Authority: s.35(2)(a)(i) CPLA.
Proposal That an area of approximately 200 hectares be designated as land to be restored to full Crown ownership and control as a conservation area to be managed by the Department of Conservation for the purpose of protecting natural resources.
Description: The steep lakeside faces contain one of the most important shrubland/forest remnants in the Lakes Ecological Region. A grove of six mature kahikatea trees and a single large matai tree are present in a damp gully. Other tree and shrub species in this substantial forest remnant include Halls totara, tree daisy, mountain akeake, broadleaf, koromiko, kowhai, rata and kamahi.
The upper reaches of these faces are in an advanced stage of regeneration towards a mixed mountain/silver beech, kanuka, manuka, inaka shrubland/forest.
Justification: The land is characterised areas that have the following significant inherent values:
Areas which alone or collectively sustain the special natural quality and integrity of the High Country landscape, especially the indigenous component.
These forest remnants are of exceptional scenic value given their proximity to the shores of Lake Wanaka. Forested backdrops provide a natural recreational setting unsurpassed elsewhere on Lakes Wanaka, Hawea or Wakatipu.
Areas which currently meet the Protected Natural Area Programme (PNAP) criteria for protection as priority natural areas (e.g. RAPs), or sites of special wildlife significance ranking as "outstanding" to "moderate/high, or wetlands of ecological and representative importance included in the WARI inventory.
While the Wanaka Ecological District has not been subject to a Protected Natural Areas Program survey, the area ranks between medium and high for most criteria used for assessing the conservation value of a natural area. These criteria and approximate rankings are as follows:
Representativeness: HIGH
Diversity: HIGH
Rarity: HIGH
Naturalness: HIGH
Long Term Ecological Viability: MEDIUM-HIGH
Size and Shape: MEDIUM-HIGH
Buffering, Surrounding Landscape and Boundaries: MEDIUM
Type localities and habitats of species and communities which are at their distributional limits and/or endemic or which have specialised habitat requirements in the High Country, and species, communities habitats or ecosystems which are uncommon and/or endemic in the ecological district
The presence of large podocarps growing close to the shores of Lake Wanaka provides some insight into the area's character prior to Polynesian fires and is highly significant from a scientific perspective. The grove of Kahikatea probably represents the eastern limit for this species in inland Otago. Other pockets of Kahikatea in the area were milled last century.
Gingidia montana plants which are present on bluffs near the mouth of the Minaret Burn are host to a range of unique, and in some cases, rare insect life.
Management and Boundary Issues:
Fencing: Little stock trespass occurs onto the lake faces; for this reason the erection of approximately 5km of fencing which would be required to demarcate this area from adjoining farmland cannot be justified.
Plant Pests. Weeds are not a major problem in the proposed conservation area. A broom survey should be conducted with emphasis on the mouth of the Minaret Burn.
Animal Pests. Periodic possum control will be desirable on the forested faces. The health of rata should be monitored.
LAND TO BE RESTORED TO OR RETAINED IN CROWN CONTROL
2.2.1 Name: Faces From Cox Bush to North Branch of the Rumbling Burn
Existing Status: Pastoral Lease
Authority: s.35(2)(b)(i) and s.3G(3)(b) CPLA.
Proposal: That approximately 465 hectares including an area known as Cox Bush be designated as a conservation area to be managed by the Department of Conservation for the purpose of protecting natural values.
An easement will need to be granted to provide for farm access and stock; movement over an existing farm track up Daniel's Spur.
Description: The area comprises steep faces Iying between Cox Bush and the North Branch of the Rumbling Burn. Much of the area is vegetated in native shrublands and forest. Bracken fern dominates the section between Cox Bush and the North Branch of the Rumbling Burn. Forest and shrubland species present include kanuka broadleaf, marble leaf, cabbage trees, Coprosma parviflora, turpentine scrub, mountain ribbonwood and silver beech.
Shrublands and bracken peter out at approximately 1000 m.a.s.l and merge into a narrow band of semi-natural grassland with some remnant narrow-leaved snow tussock and native short tussock species.
Justification: The land is characterised areas that have the following Significant inherent values:
Areas which alone or collectively sustain the special natural quality and integrity of the High Country landscape, especially the indigenous component.
Cox Bush and environs support a sequence of vegetation extending from the lake shore to the summit of Buchanan Peaks. Unless protected it is only a matter of time until the area is burnt, as it is of little grazing value in its current semi-forested state.
The area is an important component of an outstanding landscape
and contributes to the setting for lakeside recreation. 23
Areas which make a special contribution to the overall quality,
natural functioning and ecological integrity of significant values
(e.g. Iinkages, buffers etc.) whether in their present or potential
state.
The true left of the north branch of the Rumbling Burn is a logical extension of the Mount Alta Conservation Area as it will protect the entire upper catchment. Currently the west side is protected land whilst the east side unprotected. This proposal also stands to create a valuable biological linkage of protected lands extending from the shores of Lake Wanaka to existing protected high altitude lands in the Mount Alta Conservation Area.
Management and Boundary Issues
Fencing. It is not practical to fence the area from grazing lands on the south side of the Rumbling Burn. Stock trespass across the Rumbling Burn is unlikely to be a major problem. It is considered that regeneration into woody species in the absence of fire would not be hindered if the area is not fenced as it is already virtually inaccessible to stock.
Burning. Surrounding faces are burnt at regular intervals. The ridge line boundaries have been sited to minimise the risk of fire escaping into the area. It would be desirable for the Department to offer assistance when adjacent areas are burnt. Given the sunny aspect and quantity of tall bracken, an escaped fire could cause serious damage to the area.
Animal Pests. Animal pests are not considered a serious problem. However it is important that if this proposal succeeds, that the Department is able to work in with West Wanaka Station over periodic possum control.
Plant Pests. No weed species requiring control are with the proposed conservation area.
Type of Qualification: It is intended to offer an easement to the holder of the adjoining land to provide for farm access for the purposes and stock movement along the existing access track which crosses the proposal. The track is the only practical access to the area; for this reason the easement should be granted in perpetuity.
Attachment: Terms and Conditions.
2.3 EXISTING RESERVE
Not Applicable
2.4 EXISTING CONSERVATION AREA
2.4.1 Name: Crown land: section I Blk XVIII Lower Wanaka Survey District held under section 62 Conservation Act (CMS Ref: F400006).
Existing Status: Conservation Area (stewardship).
Authority: Sections 37(1) (c) & 37(1)(a) CPLA
Proposal: That approximately l hectare of the 1.548 hectare area be designated as land to be disposed of by way of exchange with other land designated by proposal 2.1. l under the Conservation Act. The balance of the area (.548 hectares) should remain a conservation area in order to provide for public car parking, access to a boat ramp on the Matukituki River and to retain the option for legalisation of the West Wanaka Road in the future.
Description: The lessees of West Wanaka occupy this area of Conservation Land under a DOC grazing licence (LS 177). The area is actually farmed by the neighbouring property (Jardines). Fencing does not appear to correspond to boundaries. Approximately l ha comprises cultivated land, the balance is used for the West Wanaka Road, public car parking access to the Matukituki Boat Ramp and a small area on the West side of the Road is fenced into Glendhu pastoral lease
Justification: The land designated for disposal has no conservation or recreation values warranting retention in Crown ownership. There is an existing marginal strip surveyed on the adjacent section of matukituki River, The CMS states that the area should be retained so as to provide access to the Matukituki Boat Ramp. In actual fact only a small portion of the area is used for this purpose.
2.5 LAND BEING DISPOSED OF SUBJECT TO A PROTECTIVE MECHANISM
2.5.1 Name: Conservation Covenant Incorporating approximately 475 hectares in six discrete areas. These areas are described and justified separately although they will be protected under one covenant containing generic standard conditions. Proposed conditions exclude burning or vegetation clearance, erection of structures and tracking, fence construction and tree planting. Deliberate grazing will be confined to areas of pasture within the covenant boundaries.
Type of Protective mechansism Conservation Covenant under section 77 Reserves Act (1977) in perpetuity.
Attachment: Terms and conditions.
2.5.1(a) Name: Narrow Spur Bush Remnants
Existing Status: Pastoral Lease.
Authority: Section 40(1) (b) CPLA
Proposal That approximately 60 hectares be designated as land to be freeholded subject to the creation of a conservation covenant for the purpose of preserving the natural environment ie beech forest remnants on the northern and southern sides of Narrow Spur (Matukituki Valley).
Description: The area encompasses two relatively large forest remnants. Mountain and silver beech are the dominant species. Less common are Halls totara. Sub canopy trees and shrubs include; fuchsia, wineberry, broadleaf£, koromiko, mapou and lancewood. The forest remnant is home to many forest birds which inhabit larger forested areas to the west. The proposal includes an open spur between the two forest remnants. This will facilitate the expansion and eventual linking of the areas.
Justification: A conservation covenant is considered an appropriate form of protection in that the area is quite small, management issues are straight forward and the area has limited recreational value.
The land is characterised by areas that have the following significant inherent values:
Areas which alone or collectively sustain the special natural quality and integrity of the High Country landscape, especially the indigenous component.
Beech remnants above the Matukituki Flats are evidence that forests once extended well to the east of the large tracts of forest on the flanks of the Main Divide. They are an important natural component of the landscape in the approach to Mount Aspiring National Park.
Areas which make a special contribution to the overall quality, natural functioning and ecological integrity of significant values (e.g. linkages, buffers etc.) whether in their present or potential state.
This area experiences a warmer and drier climate than forests to the west and therefore represents a distinct habitat for bird life and insect fauna.
Management and Boundary Issues:
Fencing. It is not considered a priority to fence the area.
Periodic Inspections. As with all covenants and conservation areas, the area should be subject to regular scheduled inspections.
2.5.1(b) Name: Beech forest remnant in unnamed creek 1.2 km south of Narrow Spur.
Existing Status: Pastoral Lease.
Authority: Section 40(1) (b) CPLA
Proposal: That an area of approximately 5 hectares be designated as land to be freeholded subject to the creation of a conservation covenant for the purpose of preserving the natural environment.
Description: The area comprises a silver beech forest remnant located in a narrow gully.
Justification: A conservation covenant is considered an appropriate form of protection in that the area is quite small, management issues are straight forward and the area has limited recreational value.
The land is characterised by areas that have the following significant inherent values:
Areas which make a special contribution to the overall quality, natural functioning and ecological integrity of significant values (e.g. linkages, buffers etc.) whether in their present or potential state.
The basis for this recommendation is that this catchment lies above an area containing an important stand of Olearia hectorii recommended for protection as a conservation area. The proposed protection is in recognition that the survival of O. hectorii may in part depend on the retention of natural processes up stream.
Areas which alone or collectively sustain the special natural quality and integrity of the High Country landscape, especially the indigenous component.
Beech remnants above the Matukituki Flats are evidence that forests once extended well to the east of the large tracts of forest on the flanks of the Main Divide. They are an important natural component of the landscape in the approach to Mount Aspiring National Park.
Management and Boundary Issues:
(a) Fencing. Given the presence of natural boundaries fencing the area is not considered necessary.
(b) Periodic Inspections. As with all covenants and conservation areas, the area should be subject to regular scheduled inspections.
2.5.1(c) Name: Faces Above South Matukituki Wetland Including Matagouri Fan on Matukituki Flats.
Existing Status: Pastoral Lease.
Authority: Section 40(1)(b) CPLA
Proposal: That an area of approximately 290 hectares be designated as land to be freeholded subject to the creation of a conservation covenant for the purpose of preserving the natural environment.
Description: The faces are vegetated by diverse shrublands interspersed with areas of exotic grasslands. Shrub species present include O. lineata, O odorata, koromiko, broadleaf, Aristotelia fruticosa, lancewood, cabbage trees, fuchsia, kohuhu and native broom. An alluvial fan at the base of catchment to the west of Buchanan Peaks supports, what is probably the largest area of mature matagouri growing in its natural habitat in the Matukituki Valley.
Justification: A conservation covenant is considered an appropriate form of protection in that management issues are straight forward and the area has limited recreational value.
The land is characterised by areas that have the following significant inherent values:
Areas which make a special contribution to the overall quality, natural functioning and ecological integrity of significant values (e.g. linkages, buffers etc.) whether {n their present or potential state.
In conjunction with lands described in proposal 2.1.9 (faces above West Wanaka Lagoons proposed for incorporation into the conservation estate) and lands within the Mount Alta Conservation area this proposal will create an altitudinal sequence of protected lands extending from valley floor to the nival zone.
Areas which alone or collectively sustain the special natural quality and integrity of the High Country landscape, especially the indigenous component.
Extensive shrublands provide an attractive natural backdrop to the
Matukituki valley which is visible from the Wanaka - Mount Aspiring Road and Treble Cone Ski Field.
Although widespread in areas subject to AOSTD, mature stands of matagouri on alluvial surfaces have largely been removed through farm development. This area contributes to the outstanding landscape of the valley.
Management and Boundary Issues:
Fencing: The area can easily be defined on maps and photos. Fencing is not considered necessary as casual grazing poses few threats to values present.
Problem plants/animals. There are no weed or pest control issues associated with this area.
Fire. Fire is the greatest threat to the area. Boundaries adopted minimise the risk of controlled burns on adjoining lands entering the area.
2.5.1(d) Name: Lookout Hill Shrublands
Existing Status: Pastoral Lease
Authority: Section 40(1) (b) CPLA
Proposal: That an area of approximately 1 10 hectares be designated as land to be freeholded subject to the creation of a conservation covenant for the purpose of preserving the natural environment.
Description: This area on the southern flanks of Lookout Hill has regenerated into a diverse mixed shrubland containing many of the species described in shrublands elsewhere on the property. Towards the summit of Lookout Hill, shrublands grade into a mixed narrow leaved (Chionochloa rigida), hard tussock (Festuca novae-zelandiae) grassland/shrubland.
Justification: A conservation covenant is considered an appropriate form of protection in that management issues are straight forward and the area has limited recreational value.
The land is characterised by areas that have the following significant inherent values:
Areas which alone or collectively sustain the special natural quality and integrity of the High Country landscape, especially the indigenous component.
These shrublands are almost entirely native in composition and are one the largest mixed hardwood shrubland/remnants on the property. The area is highly visible from the lower Matukituki Valley, the West Wanaka road and parts of Lake Wanaka.
Management Considerations:
Grazing: The area is relatively inaccessible to stock due to the nature of the terrain and the thick vegetation cover. Those boundaries not already fenced do not require fencing.
Fire: The area is not particularly vulnerable to spread of fire from controlled burning on adjoining land.
Problem Animals: Periodic possum control may be necessary in conjunction with West Wanaka Station.
2.5.1(e) Name: Station Creek Riparian Protection
Existing Status: Pastoral Lease.
Authority: Section 40(1) (b) CPLA
Proposal: That a 20 metre margin on each side of Station Creek between its mouth at Lake Wanaka and the upper boundary of the property be designated as land to be freeholded subject to the creation of a conservation covenant for the purpose of preserving the natural environment and freshwater life.
Description: Station Creek supports a large population of sizeable koaro. This is attributed to a stable stream bed and the excellent condition of riparian vegetation on the stream margins.
Justification: A conservation covenant is considered an appropriate form of protection in that the area is quite small, management issues are straight forward and the area has limited recreational value.
The land is characterised by areas that have the following significant inherent values:
Habitats of threatened species (including those which are regionally threatened).
Koaro of similar size or quantity were not found in elsewhere on the property. Koaro is one of four native fish species on the threatened species register; being a category C species (third priority for protection - Molloy and Davis 1994). Retention of healthy riparian vegetation is necessary for this species to thrive.
Is a setting of high natural value for recreational opportunities in the High Country.
Management and Boundary Issues: Burning or clearance of riparian vegetation is the greatest threat to the Station Creek koaro. Fencing the area is not considered practical or cost effective.
2.5.1(f) Name: Lakeside area at northern end of Smiths Bay
Existing Status: Pastoral Lease.
Authority: Section 40(1) (b) CPLA
Proposal: That an area of approximately 10 hectares Iying immediately above an existing lakeside marginal strip be designated as land to be freeholded subject to the creation of a conservation covenant for the purpose of preserving the natural environment.
Description: The area extends for approximately 800m north of Smiths Bay which is located north of the Matukituki River Mouth. The area lies between an existing marginal strip along the shores of Lake Wanaka and an existing farm track. (see attached map).
Vegetation comprises a mix of native species including, kowhai, Halls totara, koromiko, cabbage trees, kanaka, manaka, lancewood, broadleaf, mountain akeake and tree daisy.
Justification: A conservation covenant is considered an appropriate form of protection in that the area is quite small, management issues are straight forward and the area has limited recreational value.
The land is characterised areas that have the following significant inherent values:
Areas which alone or collectively sustain the special natural quality and {integrity of the High Country landscape, especially the indigenous component.
This area represents one of the few parts of the Lake Wanaka shoreline which has been largely protected from fire and grazing. The forest/shrubland remnants provide an insight into the character of the area prior to an increase in the frequency of fire associated with Maori and European settlement. The remnants add to the areas outstanding landscape and contribute to the setting for lakeside recreation.
Management and Boundary Issues
(a) Fencing. The area will not require fencing as it is inaccessible to stock. In the absence of burning, reversion to native wood vegetation will continue.
(b) Problem Animals/Plants. The area is not weed or pest infested. A vigilance should be maintained for broom or gorse.
(c) fire. There is a risk of accidental fire from recreational use of the lake margins and from burning of neighbouring lands for pastoral purposes. However the area has received substantial recreational use for many years and no accidental fires have occurred. The vehicle track on the upper margin of the area forms an effective fire break for pastoral burning.
2.5.2 Name: Round Hill Spur -Public Access
Existing Status: Pastoral Lease
Authority: s.40(1)(b) CPLA
Proposal: To create an easement for public foot access over a farm track up Round Hill Spur to the boundary of land proposed for addition to the West Wanaka Conservation Area. This route is accessed from the marginal strip on an unnamed stream which enters the Matukituki Valley at the base of Round Hill Spur. DOC management access is also proposed over this route (see proposal 2.6.2).
Justification: In terms of CPLA policy, criteria for establishing legal public access ways, this route meets the following criteria:
All areas to be restored to Crown ownership should have legal, practical and reasonably convenient public access secured where it does not exist at present.
This route provides direct access to lands described in proposal 2.1.4 and beyond to the West Wanaka Conservation Area. Competent parties can easily gain access to the proposal from the Wanaka - Mount Aspiring road when river conditions are average to low.
Important linkages for public access to or through reviewable land needed for public enjoyment of that land should be secured.
This route provides an important linkage to reviewable land on the western slopes of the Buchanan Mountains and provides a potential link to the route described in proposal 2.5.7. From the route spectacular views of the Matukituki valley and high peaks of Mount Aspiring National Park and surrounds can be enjoyed.
Management and Boundary Issues: Signage informing users of the route, their rights and responsibilities will be required at the top and bottom of the route. Given the low level of likely use erection of styles and route marking on the 4WD track is not necessary.
Type of Protective Mechanism: Section 7(2) Conservation Act (1987) easement. The easement is to be in favour of land within the Mount Alta Conservation Area and is to be in perpetuity.
Attachment: Terms and Conditions.
2.5.3 Name: Smiths Bay - Public Access
Existing Status: Pastoral Lease
Authority: s.40(1)(b) CPLA
Proposal: To create an easement for public foot and vehicle access over a short stretch of road which links the West Wanaka road end to marginal strip land at Smiths Bay.
Justification: In terms of CPLA policy, criteria for establishing legal public access ways, this route meets the following criteria:
Important linkages for public access to or through reviewable land needed for public enjoyment of tat land should be secured.
This proposal is an important access route through reviewable land.
Legal and practical access through land being freeholded should be secured to existing reserves, conservation areas or national parks where this would enhance reasonably convenient public access to such areas.
The road is currently perceived as legal access to Smith's Bay and receives quite a high level of use. Smith's Bay is a tranquil part of the lake. Mature willow and poplar trees on the foreshore provide a pleasant picnic site.
Management and Boundary Issues: Informal signage has been erected directing the public away from the West Wanaka. This signage should be replaced with a more durable sign which also requests users to shut a gate which lies across the route. As the track lies on river gravel and is flat there are no maintenance issues associated with as of right vehicle access.
Type of Protective Mechanism: Section 7(2) Conservation Act (1987) easement.
Attachment: Terms and Conditions.
2.5.4 Name: Public Access - West Wanaka Station to Minaret Burn and to lands proposed for addition to the public conservation estate in proposals 2.1. 11, 2.1.12 and 2.2.1.
Existing Status: Pastoral Lease.
Authority: s.40(1)(b) CPLA
Proposal: South of Colquhouns Flat most of this formed
track appears to lie on a legal road line. It is proposed that
legal public foot, mountain bike and
horse access be secured over any sections which do not correspond
with the legal road line. Beyond Colquhouns Flat the easement
corresponds with a formed track which provides access to the Minaret
Burn and beyond to the boundary of the Mount Alta Conservation
Area.
Justification: In terms of CPLA policy, criteria for establishing legal public access ways, this route meets the following criteria:
Important linkages for public access to or through reviewable land needed for public enjoyment of that land should be secured.
This proposal is an important access route through reviewable land. From the route spectacular view of Lake Wanaka and surrounding lands can be enjoyed.
All areas to be restored to Crown ownership should have legal, practical and reasonably convenient public access secured where it does not exist at present.
Legal and practical access through land being freeholded should be secured where it does not exist at present.
This route provides access to proposed conservation lands at Cox Bush, between the Rumbling and Minaret Burns and on the shores of Lake Wanaka. The route also provides access to existing conservation lands with no practical public access (Mount Alta Conservation Area at the head of the Minaret Burn). In time this easement route stands to become a popular route through the lower Minaret Burn and beyond to spectacular alpine country at the head of this catchment.
Important linkages for public access between areas managed or likely to be managed in public ownership, and {important routes between road ends should be secured.
This route provides access to the Rumbling Burn (via proposal 2.5.7) and the Minaret Burn. From these valleys there a multiple possibilities for extended through routes (for example to the Matukituki Valley and out via Round Hill Spur (see proposal 2.5.2).
Type of Protective Mechanism: Section 7(2) Conservation Act (1987) easement. The easement is to be in favour of land within the Mount Alta Conservation Area and land described in proposals 2.1.11, 2.1. 12 and 2.2.1. The easement is to be in perpetuity.
Attachment Terms and Conditions.
2.5.5 Name: Public Access from Matukituki River to Mid Matukituki
Wetland.
Existing Status: Pastoral Lease
Authority: s.40(1)(b) CPLA
Proposal: To secure legal public foot access to this wetland which is proposed for Reserve status (see proposal 2.1.6). Guns and dogs to be permitted subject to holding a hunting permit for the Mid Matukituki wetland. The easement includes all land Iying between the marginal strip and the wetland.
Justification: In terms of CPLA policy, criteria for establishing legal public access ways, this route meets the following criteria:
All areas to be restored to Crown ownership should have legal, practical and reasonably convenient public access secured where it does not exist at present.
Legal and practical public access through land being freeholded should be secured to existing reserves, conservation areas or national parks where this would enhance reasonably convenient public access to such areas.
Management and Boundary Issues: Sign posting this access is not practical due to the dynamic nature of the Matukituki River. Information on user rights and responsibilities should be provided with hunting permits issued for the area.
Type of Protective Mechanism: Easement under Section 12 of the Reserves Act 1977. The easement is to be in favour of land described in proposal 2.1.6 and is to be in perpetuity.
Attachment: Terms and Conditions.
2.5.6 Name: Public Access from Matukituki River to South
Matukituki
Wetland.
Existing Status: Pastoral Lease
Authority: s.40(1)(b) CPLA
Proposal: To secure legal public foot access to this wetland which is proposed for Reserve status (see proposal 2.1.7). Guns and dogs to be permitted subject to holding a hunting permit for the South Matukituki wetland. The easement includes all land Iying between the marginal strip and the wetland.
Justification: In terms of CPLA policy, criteria for establishing legal public access ways, this route meets the following criteria:
All areas to be restored to Crown ownership should have legal, practical and reasonably convenient public access secured where it does not exist at present.
Legal and practical public access through land being freeholded should be secured to existing reserves, conservation areas or national parks where this would enhance reasonably convenient public access to such areas.
Management and Boundary Issues: Sign posting this access is not practical due to the dynamic nature of the Matukituki River. Information on user rights and responsibilities should be provided with hunting permits issued for the area.
Type of Protective Mechanism: Easement under Section 12 of the Reserves Act 1977. The easement is to be in favour of land described in proposal 2.1.7 and is to be in perpetuity.
Attachment: Terms and Conditions.
2.5.7 Name: Public Access -Upper Rumbling Burn (West Wanaka
Conservation Area) via Daniels Spur.
Existing Status: Pastoral Lease
Authority: s.40(1)(b) CPLA
Proposal That legal public foot access be secured over that part of a track which lies between land described in proposal 2.2.1 and the Mount Alta Conservation Area (see also proposal 2.6.3 - DOC management access). The lower part of this track is within proposed conservation lands (see proposal 2.2.1) and is to be subject to an easement for farm access. This farm track links with the main farm track to the Minaret Burn near the mouth of the Rumbling Burn and climbs to the Mount Alta Conservation Area boundary.
Justification: In terms of CPLA policy, criteria for establishing legal public access ways, this route meets the following criteria:
Important linkages for public access to or through reviewable land needed for public enjoyment of tat land should be secured.
This proposal is an important access route through reviewable land. From the proposed easement through reviewable land on route to the Mount Alta Conservation Area stunning views of Lake Wanaka and surrounds can be enjoyed.
All areas to be restored to Crown ownership should have legal, practical and reasonably convenient public access secured where it does not exist at present.
Legal and practical public access through land being freeholded should be secured to existing reserves, conservation areas or national parks where this would enhance reasonably convenient public access to such areas.
The route provides practical access into the Rumbling Burn and the Mount Alta Conservation Area. The Rumbling Burn is one of the most straight forward approaches to Mount Alta. It is important to gain as of right public access into the Rumbling Burn as there is considerable commercial interest in the area. Without legal access the area could effectively be used for exclusive commercial use.
Important linkages for public access between areas managed or likely to be managed in public ownership, and important routes between road ends should be secured.
There are several possibilities for entering the Mount Alta Conservation Area via this route and exiting via alternatives; for example Round Hill Spur (see proposal 2.5.2).
Management and Boundary Issues: Signs will be required at both ends. As the route is confined to a formed track route marking is not considered necessary.
Type of, Protective Mechanism: Section 7(2) Conservation Act (1987) easement. The easement is to be in favour of land within the Mount Alta Conservation Area and is to be in perpetuity.
Attachment Terms and Conditions.
2.5.8 Name: Public Access - Mouth of Minaret Burn from Proposed Minaret Burn Access Easement (proposal 2.5.4).
Existing Status: Pastoral Lease
Authority: s.40(1)(b) CPLA
Proposal: That legal public foot access be secured over
part of a formed track (approximately 1km) which lies outside
of land proposed for
incorporation into the public conservation estate under proposal
2.1.2.
Justification: In terms of CPLA policy, criteria for establishing legal public access ways, this route meets the following criteria:
All areas to be restored to Crown ownership should have legal, practical and reasonably convenient public access secured where it does not exist at present.
The easement provides access to proposed conservation lands described in proposal 2.1.2. The route also provides foot access to the Mount Alta Conservation Area for those who arrive at the Mouth of the Minaret Burn by boat. The mouth of the Minaret Burn is an extremely attractive part of Lake Wanaka and is a popular picnic spot for boat owners.
Legal and practical public access through land being freeholded should be secured to existing reserves, conservation areas or national parks where this would enhance reasonably convenient public access to such areas.
The route provides access to existing marginal strip land on the shores of Lake Wanaka.
Important linkages for public access between areas managed
or likely to be managed in public ownership, and important routes
between road ends should be secured.
The route provides a logical link with the route described in proposal 2.5.4.
Important linkages for public access to or through reviewable land needed for public enjoyment of tat land should be secured.
The route itself is a valuable recreational opportunity as it affords magnificent views of the lower Minaret Burn, Lake Wanaka and surrounds.
Management and Boundary Issues: Signs will be required at both ends. As the route is confined to a formed track route marking is not considered necessary. Some bracken clearance will be required form time to time.
Type of Protective Mechanism: Section 7(2) Conservation Act 1987 easement. The easement is to be in favour of land within land described in proposal 2.1.2 (Lake faces - Rumbling Burn to Minaret Burn).
Attachment: Terms and Conditions.
2.6 Other Qualified Designations
2.6.1 Name: DOC Management Access - West Wanaka Road End to Round Hill Spur.
Existing Status: Pastoral Lease
Authority: s.36(3)(b) CPLA
Proposal: That the designation of land under section 35(2)(c) CPLA for disposal be subject to an easement to provide for vehicle access for DOC management purposes over the farm road up the Matukituki Valley to Round Hill Spur Hut. Management access up Round Hill Spur is described in proposal 2.6.2.
Justification: If proposals contained in this report are achieved, DOC will regularly require access up the Matukituki Valley. It is not considered reasonable to attempt to attain as of right, public access over this route as it is located within the heart of an intensive farming operation.
Management and Boundary Issues: Minimal.
Type of Qualified Designation: Section 7(2) Conservation Act (1987) easement. The easement is to be in favour of land within the Mount Alta Conservation Area and is to be in perpetuity.
Attachment Terms and Conditions.
2.6.2 Name: DOC Management Access - Round Hill Spur.
Existing Status: Pastoral Lease
Authority: s.36(3)(b) CPLA
Proposal That the designation of land under section 35(2)(c) CPLA for disposal be subject to an easement to provide for DOC vehicle access for management purposes over the route described in proposal 2.5.2.
Justification: This provides a logical route into the Mount Alta Conservation Area. Formalising access ensures future access for such activities as weed and pest control.
Management and Boundary Issues: Minimal.
Type of Qualified Designation: Section 7(2) Conservation Act (1987) easement. The easement is to be in favour of land within the Mount Alta Conservation Area and is to be in perpetuity.
Attachment Terms and Conditions.
2.6.3 Name: DOC Management Access - Daniels Spur.
Existing Status: Pastoral Lease
Authority: s.36(3)(b) CPLA
Proposal: That the designation of land under section 35(2)(c) CPLA for disposal be subject to an easement to provide for DOC vehicle access for management purposes over the route described in proposal 2.5.7.
Justification: This provides a logical route into the Rumbling Burn. Formalising access ensures future access for such activities as weed and pest control.
Management and Boundary Issues: Minimal.
Type of Protective Mechanism: Section 7(2) Conservation Act (1987) easement. The easement is to be in favour of land within the Mount Alta Conservation Area and is to be in perpetuity.
Attachment Terms and Conditions.
2.6.4 Name: DOC Management Access - Main track to Minaret Burn from road end at West Wanaka Homestead.
Existing Status: Pastoral Lease
Authority: s.36(3)(b) CPLA
Proposal: That the designation of land under section
35(2)(C) CPLA for disposal be subject to an easement to provide
for DOC vehicle access for
management purposes over the route described in proposal 2.5.4.
Justification: This provides a logical route into the
Mount Alta Conservation Area. Formalising access ensures future
access for such activities as weed
and pest control.
Management and Boundary Issues: Minimal.
Type of Protective Mechanism: Section 7(2) Conservation
Act (1987) easement. The easement is to be in favour of land within
the Mount Alta
Conservation Area and is to be in perpetuity.
Attachment: Terms and Conditions.
3. Exemption or Variation in Marginal Strip Width
Not Applicable
4. Other Matters
4.1 Minaret Burn / West Wanaka Conservation Area Boundary Fence: The current boundary fence between West Wanaka pastoral lease and conservation land in the Minaret Burn (Mount Alta Conservation Area) is in poor condition. It is not considered practical to repair or to relocate. While West Wanaka continues with its policy of only running cattle in the Minaret Burn this is not a great problem as they do not graze the upper faces. Comment from the lessees indicates that when sheep were grazed in the area they rarely grazed as high as the retirement fence.
4.2 Other Boundaries. There is some confusion as to the relationship between the existing boundary fencing with the Mount Alta Conservation Area and the actual legal boundary. It is proposed that the fenceline be adopted as the legal boundary.
4.3 NGO Concerns
The majority of points raised by NGO s have been catered for in this proposal. Comment on outstanding matters is as follows:
5. Attachments
Additional Information
(i) Terms and Conditions of Qualified Designations [not
included on this site]
(ii) Terms and Conditions of Protective Mechanisms [not included
on this site]
5.2 Illustrative Map
Public Access New Zealand
Tuesday, 9 July 2002
Commissioner of Crown lands
C/- DTZ New Zealand Ltd
P O Box 27
Alexandra
PANZ wishes to make comment on the following aspects of the West Wanaka Preliminary Proposal.
Despite the pastoral lease being the residue of a much larger holding, the balance being surrendered to the Crown as a result of a Soil and Water Conservation Plan, the review is complex and requires considerably more investigation than we were able to achieve. The time constraints imposed by official decisions to advertise a large number of tenure reviews in short succession, has prevented PANZ from undertaking adequate inspection and consideration of this proposal. In particular, we have not been able to consider the adequacy of proposed reserves and covenants. Therefore we reserve the right for further commentary.
We endorse the description of recreational characteristics, public access and activities contained in DOC's Conservation Resources Report, p 33, but not necessarily the report's recreational recommendations.
As the above report notes, the "distinctive recreational feature of the property is that it forms a horse shoe shape around the West Wanaka Conservation Area, meaning that practical overland routes onto the southern section of the Buchanan Mountains traverse the property". This large, mountainous conservation area is effectively land-locked, with minimal practical legal access from Lake Wanaka or the Matukituki River, being the boundaries of the property.
To-date, recreational attention has been focused either on the mountains outside of the leasehold, or the Lake shores or Matukituki River mouth. In the latter case existing marginal strips have been utalised. Therefore most recreational activity on the present-day leasehold has been focused on crossing it to reach adjoining public lands. Long term provision of safe, convenient public access has to be a primary outcome of this review.
One area we feel the DOC report is deficient in is in regard to river-based recreation. The Matukituki is popular for kayaking and other boating. Many participants would land on the banks, and assume that marginal strips are in place for their use. However, as these particular strips are fixed in position, and the river is not, this may not be the case (further comment below).
The Summary of the Preliminary Proposal lists the following proposals
(B - C) Round Hill Spur - public access
It is proposed that an easement be created for public foot access
over a farm track up Round Hill Spur to the boundary of land proposed
as conservation area. This route is accessed from a marginal strip
on an unnamed stream that enters the Matukituki Valley at the
base of Round Hill Spur.
This route provides direct access to a proposed conservation area on Tongue Spur and beyond to the West Wanaka conservation area. It is stated that "competent parties can easily gain access to the easement from the Wanaka - Mount Aspiring road when river conditions are average to low".
This description differs from that contained in DOC's description
of recreational characteristics (Conservation Resources Report,
p 34).
"Access to the Round Hill Spur track can be gained by crossing
the Matukituki River on foot from the Wanaka Mount Aspiring Road
when river levels are low" (our emphasis).
Our experience of the Matukituki River leads us to believe that the early statement is more accurate than the justification advanced in the Preliminary Proposal. Rarely are there prolonged periods when this major river, draining the main divide, is low enough for easy crossing on foot. Most of the time it is either a serious barrier for competent parties, or impassible. With rain in the upper catchment, the river is liable to rise rapidly at any time and cut off return by the same route.
Often the West Matukituki is difficult enough to cross to gain access to the East Branch. A major suspension bridge in the lower West Branch provides a safe alternative to fording if required. The proposed crossing to Round Hill Spur involves crossing the combined flows of the East and West Branches of the Matukituki. Despite a braided channel, it is a normally a formidable river. There is no bridge alternative available.
DOC cites the following as an objective for tenure review
"Legal and practical public access through land being
freeholded should be secured to existing reserves, conservation
areas or national parks where this would enhance reasonably convenient
public access to such areas".
The proposal fails the 'practical' and 'convenient' tests, and therefore the duty to secure public access under the Crown Pastoral Land Act (CPLA). It also fails as a legal fact, as no legal access exists from the Mount Aspiring Road to the riverside marginal strip and riverbed. There is a gap between the two, the entire length of the lower valley. Unless provision is made now for access across the Matukituki pastoral lease, it is beyond official ability to 'secure' public access to the currently reviewable land. Alternative access provision must be made to fulfil the objects of the CPLA.
As DOC states in the Proposed Designations Report, p 31, of the Conservation Resource Report, "this route provides an important linkage to reviewable land on the western slopes of the Buchanan Mountains. From the route spectacular views of the Matukituki Valley and high peaks of Mount Aspiring National Park and surrounds can be enjoyed". Without practical public access provision in this locality, a huge block of public lands will remain 'landlocked' and out of bounds to the public. That would be an entirely unacceptable outcome.
Alternative access up true left bank essential
On Map 2b, of DOC's Conservation Resources Report,
the existing farm track from the West Wanaka homestead to the
foot of Round Hill Spur is depicted as an "access route of
recreational utility". In justification of a DOC management
purposes easement over the same farm track it is stated that "DOC
will regularly require access up the Matukituki Valley".
However in regard to public access, the department's advice is
that "it is not considered reasonable to attempt to attain
as of right, public access over this route as it is located within
the heart of an intensive farming operation". It appears
that no official effort was made to raise the possibility of public
access along this track during negotiations with the lessee.
We ask why it should be 'reasonable' to provide for 'regular' DOC access and not for the public, given that "the securing of public access to and enjoyment of reviewable land" is an object of the CPLA, but securing DOC access is not?
We submit that public foot and bicycle access along the farm road be proposed to the lessees. We realise that there may be objections to this, however reliance on fording the Matukituki is impractical and potentially dangerous. The reality is that parties coming out of the mountains will find the river unfordable and will, by necessity, have to exit via the farm road. It would be better to formalise public use. Because of the distance involved (in excess of 15 km) foot access only would be unacceptable. We would appreciate further consultation on our proposal and would like to assist to make this a reality.
Provision should also be made for practical public access beyond the foot of Round Hill Spur. Although there is a marginal strip further up-river this may not provide practical access when the riverbed cannot be traversed. A farm track around the base of this steep promontory could be utalised (PHOTO 1).
Without securing practical public access up the true left bank of the Matukituki, a huge area of mountain land will remain inaccessible to the general public. A major Crown objective for tenure review over pastoral leasehold would then be unfulfilled.
(D - E) Smiths Bay - public access
It is proposed that an easement for public foot, horse and vehicle
access be created over a short stretch of road which links the
West Wanaka Road end to an existing lakeside marginal strip at
Smiths Bay.
The road currently receives a quite high level of use. Smith's Bay is a tranquil part of the lake. Mature willow and poplar trees on the foreshore provide a pleasant picnic site.
PANZ fully supports this access provision and appreciates the lessees' willingness to accommodate this. (PHOTO 2).
(R- F) West Wanaka Station to Minaret Burn
The proposals state that "south of Colquhouns Flat most of
this formed track appears to lie on legal road line. It is proposed
that legal public foot, mountain bike and horse access be secured
over sections which do not correspond with the legal road line.
Beyond Colquhouns Flat the easement corresponds with a formed
track which provides access to the Minaret Burn and beyond to
the boundary of the Mount Alta conservation area".
PANZ supports this key access as an interim step towards realigning the legal road alignment to that of the currently utalised formation.
It appears from inspection from the air of the first section of easement from Smith's Bay that this is unformed and would require routing through heavily glaciated rock benches to provide practical access above the shoreline. This may require formation to be suitable for cycle and horse use, in addition to frequent route marking. Any formation and marking should be a priority. (PHOTOS 1, 3).
(G - H) Public access from Matukituki River to mid Matukituki
wetland
It is proposed that legal public foot access be secured to this
wetland which is proposed for Reserve status (3.1.6). Guns and
dogs to be permitted subject to holding a hunting permit for the
mid Matukituki wetland. The easement includes all land lying between
the marginal strip and the wetland. Access is required as the
wetland is used for game bird hunting and fishing.
PANZ supports this provision, however there will still be need for reliable access via the true left bank of the Matukituki.
(J- I) Access from Matukituki River to South Matukituki
wetland
It is proposed that legal public foot access be secured to this
wetland which is proposed for Reserve status. Guns and dogs to
be permitted subject to holding a hunting permit for the South
Matukituki wetland. The easement includes all land lying between
the marginal strip and the wetland. Access is required as the
area is used for game bird hunting and fishing.
PANZ supports this provision, however there will still be need for reliable access via the true left bank of the Matukituki.
(K- L) Access - Upper Rumbling Burn (West Wanaka conservation
area) via Daniels Spur
It is proposed that legal public foot access be secured over that
part of the track which lies between the proposed Cox Bush-shoreline
conservation area and the Mount Alta conservation area. The lower
part of this track is within proposed conservation lands.
This route will provide important access into the Rumbling Burn, as far as Mt Alta. However it does not provide convenient access to the Buchanan Peaks. An offshoot easement should extend up the crest of Daniels Spur to the conservation area boundary. Without this additional route, the Buchanan massif remains cut-off due to a lack of convenient access and unavailable to all but commercial heliskiers. (PHOTO 4).
(N-M) Public access - Mouth of Minaret Burn from proposed
Minaret Burn access easement
It is proposed that legal public foot access be secured over that
part of the formed track (approximately 500 metres) which lies
outside of the proposed conservation area 3.1.12. The route itself
is a valuable recreational opportunity as it affords magnificent
views of the lower Minaret Burn, Lake Wanaka and surrounds and
an important link for boat access to the mouth of the Burn.
PANZ supports this easement.
Matukituki Bridge approaches
We support the proposed action of retaining in Crown ownership
the alignment of the formed road for future 'legalisation' by
the district council. We point out however that the formed road
may already be a legal road through either express or implied
dedication by the Crown and the lessee, and acceptance by the
district council or through public user. Refer to the PANZ web
site for the recently determined Stony Batter case concerning
dedication of public roads (Privy Council Appeal No. 21 of
2001 Man O'War Station Limited and Huruhe Station Limited Appellants
v. Auckland City Council (formerly Waiheke County Council) and
H. M. Attorney General for New Zealand Respondents).
The following proposals are to ensure better compliance with Section 24(c) CPLA the securing of public access to and enjoyment of reviewable land. 'Revisable land' includes land proposed for freeholding, and is not confined to proposed or existing conservation areas.
Soft Burn Station Creek
DOC, in their original Conservation Resource Report recommendations,
proposed a West Wanaka Station - Soft Burn - Station Creek public
easement over a farm track which ascends into the Soft Burn from
the Matukituki Valley, traverses behind Lookout Hill, crosses
the headwaters of Station Creek and descends to Lake Wanaka at
Cox Bush. This was seen as providing an interesting round trip
with spectacular views of Lake Wanaka and surrounding mountains.
DOC notes that this enters the West Wanaka Conservation Area at
a point which would provide a feasible route to the Buchanan Peaks.
This route was also recorded as an "access route of recreational utility" on DOC's map 2B.
In our view, securing convenient access to the Buchanan Peaks is of primary importance. This route would provide the most direct access to this mountain massif. Without such access this area will remain the preserve of commercial heli operators. It is ideal for summer tramping and winter ski mountaineering. The south-facing slopes and basins best suited for the latter activity could be reached directly from near the Soft Burn-Station Creek saddle (PHOTO 5).
We submit that an access easement be created from the West Wanaka homestead over this saddle for foot, cycle and horse access to connect onto the Minaret Burn access.
Lookout Hill
At an "early warning" meeting held in Alexandra
in April 1997, NGOs, including PANZ, recommended public foot access
up Lookout Hill. This was identified as a possible viewpoint.
This has not been incorporated into the Preliminary Proposals.
This would provide a potentially popular day-trip that provides excellent views of Lake Wanaka and surrounds. It is not a strenuous climb.
We submit that foot and horse access easements be created up the east ridge from easement R F, to the summit, and down to our proposed easement through the Soft Burn (PHOTOS 5, 6).
Public notification required
We note mechanisms for resolving disputes between the Transferor
and the Transferee, but there is no provision for public notification
or objection to any changes to the terms of the easement. We welcome
most of the public access easements being pursuant to section
7 (2) Conservation Act, which should require section 49 public
notice procedures if any disposition of the Crown's interest in
the easement is proposed. However there is too much scope for
official discretion as to whether or not a change that may be
detrimental to public access is deemed to be a disposition. Given
that "any member of the public" is included within the
definition of 'Transferee', but excluded from any settlement of
disputes, we think it only proper that there be an express requirement
for s49 Conservation Act procedures whenever any change, or extinguishment,
to the terms of easements are proposed.
Exclusion of schedules
We note an express exclusion of the rights and powers contained
in the Ninth Schedule of the Property Law Act, but not of those
in section 126G which enable modification or extinguishment of
easements through the Courts. We submit that section 126G of the
Property Law Act be expressly excluded from the terms of public
access easements.
Temporary closures
We are perturbed by DOC's fixation with frustrating public
recreation through provision for temporary suspension of access.
"The Transferee may close all or part of the Easement Area
and suspend public access to it for reasons of public safety or
emergency require closure, or otherwise in accordance wit the
provisions of section 13 of the Conservation Act 1987".
Section 13 Conservation Act only applies to conservation areas. The easement area will be private freehold. If there are genuine reasons for closure of the conservation area, that is where closures should apply. Notifying closure of the conservation area at the commencement of the easement is acceptable, however the easement itself cannot be closed under the Conservation Act.
There is no statutory authority cited for closure for public safety or emergency. Emergency powers should be exercised either by the Police or Rural Fire controlling authority for genuine emergencies only. In view of DOC's partiality towards tourism and other commercial interests at the expense of public recreation, we do not trust the department with powers of considerable discretion and vagueness such as "public safety". Such powers are contrary to public rights of access and recreation over conservation areas and could easily be subject to misuse. DOC's powers over Easement Areas should be no greater than over the land the easements are appurtenant to. If there are no express authorities under the Conservation Act for closure of conservation areas for "public safety" reasons, we submit that there should be no such provisions over these public access easements.
Closure of easements I J and G H under section 12 Reserves Act for "for the protection and control of the public" is ultra vires the Minister's powers. There is no need for such paternalistic authority over the public. If public activities exceed beyond those granted by these easements, there are legal remedies open to the Transferor. Section 12 relates to acquiring interests over private land "for the purposes of a reserve or for the improvement, protection, or extension of or access to an existing reserve". What is proposed is inconsistent with section 12 and CPLA objectives in regard to securing public access, and must be deleted.
Horse passage
We welcome the provision for as-of-right horse passage along
easement R-N-F, and appreciate the lessee's willingness to accommodate
this. We note that a 2-gate system is being devised for pedestrian
and cycle passage through deer fences, but not for horses. We
have discussed with riding club representatives what might be
required for horses and they advise that vehicle size gates are
unnecessary. Only one horse needs to pass through a gate/enclosure
structure at a time.
An assumption appears to have arisen during official consideration of horses and gates, that because horses can and do use vehicle-size gates and these will be present at each fence, than they MUST use these. This is not the case.
We believe that it should be possible to design an unlocked 2-gate system suitable for horse, pedestrian, and cycle passage, without deer escaping. It would just need to be larger version of what is envisaged for pedestrians and cycles. A successful design could have wide application throughout the high country.
There are disadvantages in having to obtain keys to locked gates, as this would normally necessitate prior contact with the owner and making arrangements for uplifting keys, assuming owner availability at the time of intended arrival. Such a system would require substantial goodwill for it to work without visitors being disadvantaged. Another consideration is that present and future landowners' privacy and time will be continually impinged upon. What we suggest above would eliminate the disadvantages for both parties.
Tenants and licensees of DOC
We welcome the exclusion of tenants and licensees of DOC from
the definitions of 'Transferee' and the related express prohibition
of DOC concession holders from easement L- K. This should ensure
that public recreationists will not in future be displaced by
ground-travelling guided tourists. This may mitigate to a small
degree aerial hordes flying directly to conservation areas.
We submit that all future tenure review easement documents make these exclusions standard throughout the South Island high country.
Locking of gates
We note that on easements I-J and G-H, gates are not deemed
to be obstructions. However locked gates would be "unreasonable
impediments" to the use of easement areas. We submit that
Clause 10 should be amended to read -
"the Transferor shall not obstruct the easement Area by parked
vehicles, deposit of materials or unreasonable impediment to the
use of the easement Area. Unlocked gates are not deemed an instruction"
(our emphasis).
We are perturbed that in the vehicular access D E to Smiths Bay, that clause 12.4 provides an ability to lock gates. If exercised, this would defeat the purpose of the easement to permit access at any time. No justification is provided for this discretion, with no criterion to judge the necessity of particular closures. As pedestrians, cyclists and gate-jumping horses can continue to access and enjoy the beach, why not vehicle users?
We object to such arbitrary powers over a public easement to a marginal strip, and submit that these be deleted.
SO 23827 records former section 58 Land Act strips along the bank of the Matukituki and the shores of Lake Wanaka. These are now reserved under section 24(3) Conservation Act. Section 24G(7) precludes these pre-1990 strips from being movable.
Overlay of NZMS 260 and 261 series maps shows significant misalignment between riverbanks and these fixed position marginal strips; something to be expected of a major braided river. The dynamic nature of the river banks are confirmed by DOC's revised recommendations at 2.5.5 and 2.5.6 which state, in regard to these easements, "sign posting this access is not practical due to the dynamic nature of the Matukituki River". The Conservation Resources Report (2.7.2) further states that "marginal strips at the mouth of the Matukituki River do not appear to reflect the current location of river channels and islands" (PHOTO 7).
The CCL has decided that marginal strips shall not be dealt with during tenure review; that these should be dealt with independently by DOC. PANZ vigorously rejects such unwarranted inaction by the CCL as this fails to advance the Crown's legitimate interests, and the public interest, on pastoral lands.
If the CCL's narrow view is applied to this case, on new sections of river bank (i.e. in a new position, away from an existing strip) there will remain a duty under s 24 Conservation Act to provide new, movable strips, whereas historical strips that remain along banks would be fixed in position. With further shifting of the river, both new and old strips will become disconnected and therefore unusable.
Failure to rationalise marginal strips as part of tenure review will only serve to compound the problem. If tenure review does not provide an incentive to permanently rectify the situation, it is highly unlikely that any other opportunity will arise in the future. There certainly will not be further 'dispositions' of Crown land to trigger the marginal strip provisions of the Conservation Act - this tenure review will be the last Crown disposition.
We submit that, as a condition of CCL approval for tenure review, the lessee's approval be obtained to exchange the existing marginal strip the length of the river for a new movable strip. Authority for such action is provided by s24E Conservation Act.
The public credibility of the tenure review programme will be in large part hinge on official willingness to accommodate well-aired public aspirations for assured access to and along waterways.
S 24E. Exchange of marginal strips---
(1) The Minister may, by notice in the Gazette, authorise the exchange of any marginal strip for another strip of land.
(2) The Minister shall not authorise the exchange of any marginal strip unless the Minister is satisfied that the exchange will better achieve the purposes specified in section 24C of this Act.
(3) The land taken by the Crown in exchange for any marginal strip shall be deemed to be reserved as marginal strip.
(4) The Minister may authorise the payment or receipt by the Crown of money by way of equality of exchange in any case under this section; and all money so received shall be paid into the Department of Conservation Grants and Gifts Trust Account, and shall be applied, without further appropriation than this section, for the purposes of this Act.
(5) The Minister or the Director-General may, on behalf of the Crown, do all such things as may be necessary to effect any exchange authorised under this section.
(6) District Land Registrars are hereby authorised and directed to make such entries in registers and do all such other things as may be necessary to give effect to exchanges authorised under this section.
This is an express provision that over-rides the general prohibition of "sale or other disposition" under section 24. Section 24E was specifically designed for the purpose of making fixed strips movable or in other situations where relocation is desirable.
Another fixed-position marginal strip along the shore of Lake Wanaka does not present a moveability problem, and is unlikely to do so unless the lake outlet is damned or there is another ice age.
Because of the deeply incised nature of this stream, a fixed-position strip up the Minaret Burn may not present a problem, however this should be investigated and this opportunity taken to negotiate its exchange for a movable strip if that is required to ensure practical legal access along the banks.
SO 23827 records marginal strips created at the last lease renewal. These are along McGills Creek, the unnamed creek below Round Hill Spur, a short section of a Matukituki River channel west of The Island, and the Rumbling Burn part way up both branches. These are all subject to section 24F and are automatically movable with changes to banks.
We are concerned that not all qualifying streams have marginal strips. The Soft Burn and an unnamed creek, approximately 1.5 km to the west, exceed the minimum bed width of an average of 3 metres from bank crest to bank crest, however no strips exist. The unnamed creek would provide practical access to the existing conservation area (PHOTO 8). These deficiencies must be rectified during tenure review.
Yours faithfully
Bruce Mason
Researcher & Co-Spokesman
Appendices: 8 photographs