3 November 2005

The Canterbury-Aoraki Conservation Board has been impressed by the Department of Conservation's plans for the future of the Molesworth Farm Park.

Recently the Board visited the historic Acheron Accommodation House near Hanmer to hear about the future of this 180,476 hectare property from the South Marlborough Area Manager, David Hayes.

Last July DOC took over Molesworth, the largest farm in the country, which is continuing to be leased and operated by Landcorp Farming Ltd. However the Board was pleased to hear that the new arrangements would mean greater public access to this stunning landscape, enhancement of biodiversity, while retaining Molesworth as a productive farming unit.

Access will still primarily be along both the Acheron and Rainbow Roads, with the former through Molesworth being restricted from December 28 to April 1. The road will also be closed during times of high fire danger. Other areas bounding the central farm will have more open access at various times of the year.

Board Chairman Alan Jolliffe is pleased that the new arrangements will allow improved recreation opportunities within a farming area, at the same time enhancing biodiversity.

“This is a stunning landscape quite close to Christchurch. People who visit Hanmer should take the time to drive over Jack's Pass and experience a completely natural wilderness environment. An environment which is rich in endemic plant and wildlife species such as a diverse range of lizards and birdlife,” he says.

“What is particularly pleasing are the moves towards planned integrated management of a productive farm, while recreation and biodiversity values are also enhanced. As is clearly seen in Europe, conservation, farming, and recreation can work together and are not mutually exclusive, as many people seem to believe”.

David Hayes explained to the Conservation Board that DOC is going to boost its presence on the Acheron Road through Molesworth during the busy summer months with two rangers. It will also be working closely with the lessee, Landcorp Farming Ltd, to enhance conservation over the 25 Recommended Areas for Protection on the farm itself

A pamphlet is already available from DOC providing information on access and other features and detailing the Molesworth Care Code. An eight person advisory steering committee will help chart the future development of this new development, a farm park the size of Steward Island.

Contact:

Alan Jolliffe
Chairman, Canterbury-Aoraki Conservation Board
+64 3 379 2965 (w) +64 3 354 0402, 027 224 5686
jolliffe@slingshot.co.nz