Application by University of Otago for a lease, licence, and easement

Introduction

Have your say on an application by University of Otago to continue occupying land within Silverpeaks Scenic Reserve for the Physics Research Field Station. Submissions closed 26 November 2021.

Submissions closed 26 November 2021.

This application is notified under section 17SC of the Conservation Act 1987. The Minister of Conservation has received an application for a lease and licence and easement for a term of 30 years.

Application details

Applicant: University of Otago
Location of proposed activity: Silverpeaks Scenic Reserve
Map reference: Approximate GPS NZTM 2000: E1404003.85 N4926509.16 (Physics Research Field Station building location)
Concession Applied for: Lease, Licence, and Easement
Summary of proposal: This proposal is to continue to occupy conservation land for activities (both existing and new) relating to the operation of the Physics Research Field Station within Silverpeaks Scenic Reserve for a 30-year term concession (lease, licence, and easement):

  • Formalise the historic access and occupation over approximately 3.2 hectares of conservation land on which the Physics Research Field Station building is situated (built in the 1960’s), along with related scientific equipment spread throughout the area
  • Construction of a solar panel array to power the research station and, installation of a backup portable diesel generator and above-ground fuel tank.

Application documents

How to make a submission

Any person or organisation may make a submission in writing to the Director-General on the proposal. Submissions close 26 November 2021.

1. Prepare your submission

Record what you think in the submission form:

2. Send us your submission

Send your submission by email or post. You will get a confirmation email or letter when a submission has been received.

Email: DNSubmissions@doc.govt.nz

Post:
Director-General
Department of Conservation
Ōtepoti / Dunedin Service Centre
Level 1, John Wickliffe House
265 Princes Street
Ōtepoti / Dunedin 9016
Attention: Kelvin Brown

Once submitted, submitters' information is subject to the Official Information Act 1982 and may be released under that Act. If you wish to keep any part of your submission confidential, you need to state this in writing when making your submission.

Any person or organisation wishing to be heard in support of his/her submission, must request (within that submission) an opportunity to appear before the Director-General.

DOC comment regarding publicly notified applications

The Minister of Conservation has made no determination regarding the suitability of this proposed concession on public conservation land. This public notification should not be interpreted as an intention on the part of the Minister of Conservation to grant the proposed concession.

Hearing details

If a hearing is required, it is likely to occur on Monday, 6 December 2021.