The Guardians of Lake Wānaka provide a direct link between the public and the Minister of Conservation over Lake Wānaka related issues.

Establishment and purpose

The Government enacted The Lake Wānaka Preservation Act in 1973 in recognition of public concern about the potential of hydro-electric development to alter the natural level and outflow of Lake Wānaka.

The Act makes provision for the protection of the natural state of the lake, and for the appointment of the Guardians of Lake Wānaka to advise the Minister of Conservation over:

• preventing the lake from being impounded, controlled or obstructed
• preventing the natural rate of flow from the lake from being varied or controlled
• preserving the lake level and shoreline in their natural states
• maintaining and improving (where possible) the quality of water in the lake.

Functions and administration

The Guardians of Lake Wānaka have a direct responsibility to advise the Minister over issues affecting the purposes of the Act, or the recreational use of the lake and to liaise with the Otago Regional Council over matters which may affect the lake. Conversely, the Regional Council is also required to consult the Guardians when considering resource consent applications which may affect the lake.

The Guardians (typically numbering 6) are appointed by the Minister, who also appoints the Chairperson. One member is nominated by Te Rununga o Ngai Tahu to represent their interests. Meetings are generally held quarterly or as necessary. DOC Central Otago District Office assists the Guardians of Lake Wānaka for the purpose of administration and continuity. 

Current Guardians

• Dr Don Robertson  – Board Chair
• Julie Perry
• Nancy Latham
• Jeff Donaldson

Contact the Guardians of Lake Wānaka

Email: GuardiansofLakeWanaka@doc.govt.nz 
or phone Tititea/Mount Aspiring National Park Visitor Centre: +64 3 443 7660 

The Chairperson
Guardians of Lake Wānaka
PO Box 93
Wānaka

Related links

• Lake Wānaka Preservation Act 1973