The iconic Rangatira Point lake edge walking track will continue to be open to the public, following the signing of a 20-year lease agreement with landowners Rangatira Point Block Inc.
The signing took place last week at the Nukuhau marae and was attended by Rangatira Point and marae representatives, Mayor David Trewavas and elected members.
“This is very exciting, and I love the collaboration we have seen, with us being the landowner and working with council,” said Tom Loughlin, spokesperson for Rangatira Point. “It’s about looking after this place and sharing it with all our visitors, regardless of where they come from, but it’s also a great example of working together, putting our resources together and looking after the land. This is a new relationship for us with council, it’s a blank canvas and the beginning of a great journey that gives us the opportunity and the confidence to keep moving forward and working with our neighbours.”
Mayor David Trewavas said it’s a fantastic outcome for everyone involved, as well as locals and visitors.
“The Rangatira Track is a beautiful location, something that has been enjoyed and cherished for generations, and it’s excellent that the landowners will continue to share it with us all. This is a real collaboration and it’s been an honour to be a part of it.”
The Department of Conservation – who has leased the land for the past 30 years – approached council to discuss the opportunity to partner with Rangatira Point Block Inc. and ensure continued public access to the track. Last year, we committed to ensuring public access was maintained and set aside $63,000 per annum for this purpose.
