Birchwood Homestead consultation - options for the future
Submissions have now closed.
The Department of Conservation is seeking views on the future management of land formally known as Birchwood Station.
Birchwood background
The former Birchwood Station is located at the head of the Ahuriri Valley. It was purchased in 2004 and now contributes about half of Ahuriri Conservation Park. The Ahuriri Conservation Park was opened in March 2005.
The 2004 purchase agreement included a lease to the Williamson family for the Birchwood Homestead, associated facilities and grazing of 680 hectares of the lower valley flats of the station for a five-year transition period expiring in July 2009.
Discussion documents
Birchwood Station discussion paper on future opportunites (PDF, 165K)
Birchwood Homestead - expressions of interest (PDF, 788K)
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What is the discussion about?
Birchwood Station, Ahuriri Valley
The expiry of the five-year transition lease for the lower valley and homestead at Birchwood provides an opportunity for New Zealanders to experience the history of the station and further enjoy aspects of this park.
The management of this area offers the opportunity to protect and preserve biodiversity, historic and recreation values, and to contribute to the local communities and economy.
Ideas for the future
This discussion paper outlines the future proposals and identifies the short and medium term issues for this entrance and facility area of the Ahuriri Conservation Park, focusing on the former Birchwood Station Homestead.
Concession opportunities
The department believes that the former Birchwood Station facilities (Homestead and some of the ancillary buildings) can make a valuable contribution to conservation. The Homestead could provide both enjoyment for visitors and a suitable concession activity that is consistent with the Conservation Act 1987 and DOC's policies.
Your chance to comment
This document sets out the Department's draft proposals for the future use of this part of the Ahuriri Conservation Park. You are invited to express your views on these proposals.
You are also invited to suggest any other ideas that you think would:
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fit with the purposes for which public conservation land is managed
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benefit public use and enjoyment, and nature conservation
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assist with adding to local economic wealth and employment.
It is important to keep in mind that the outcome the Department wishes to achieve for the management of this part of the Ahuriri Valley as a place New Zealanders can feel proud of, while making a contribution to conserving our environment and our social well being and economic prosperity.
How to submit
Please send your views by email or in writing to:
Sally Jones
Programme Manager
Community Relations
sajones@doc.govt.nz
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Twizel Area Office
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Phone:
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+64 3 435 0802
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Fax:
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+64 3 435 0852
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Email:
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TwizelAO@doc.govt.nz
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Address:
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Wairepo Road
Twizel 7901
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Postal Address:
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Private Bag
Twizel 7944
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