Intention to grant RAL licence notified

20 August 2015

Intention to grant RAL licence notified

The Department of Conservation has notified the intention to grant a 60 year licence concession to Ruapehu Alpine Lifts Ltd (RAL) for the Whakapapa ski field operation.

The 60 year licence concession is made up of an initial 30 year term plus six extensions of five years for the ski field operation at Whakapapa on Mt Ruapehu in Tongariro National Park.

DOC Central North Island Partnerships Director David Speirs says RAL’s current licence had four years to run on its initial 30 year period but changes to legislation in 1996 meant a new application was required for the 30 year renewal period.

“RAL made the decision to submit a new application under the new terms and it has been agreed to in principle,” he said.

Individuals, businesses and organisations now have 40 working days, until October 21 2015, to lodge submissions in support or opposition to the application.

A hearing into the application may be held in the week starting November 9 this year if submitters indicate they wish to be heard.

It is hoped a final decision will be made by the end of the year, after consideration of submissions received and all other relevant information.

For further information on the process http://www.doc.govt.nz/getting-involved/consultations/current/notified-concession-applications/

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