24 January 2005

Comment on the cone

Aucklanders will have the chance to voice their views on how one of the city's most noted landmarks, Maungawhau Mt Eden, can be preserved for future generations.

The mountain, which is a place of key archaeological, geological and cultural sites, is slowly eroding as the result of increasing traffic, pedestrian activity, cattle grazing and natural processes.

In order to preserve its special features and manage the demand from competing user groups, Auckland City is currently reviewing the Management Plan for Maungawhau Mt Eden, which was first developed in 1986.

The council is required by law to outline the city's general intentions for use, development and maintenance of reserve land, which then provides a framework within which all future management will be carried out.

"We are seeking to balance the protection of natural resources with the provision of recreational opportunities that are relevant to the needs of the local and wider community," says Deputy Chair of the Environment, Heritage and Urban Form Committee, Councillor Penny Sefuiva.

Auckland City is keen to know what those needs are and how Aucklanders would like Maungawhau Mt Eden to be cared for in the future.

“I urge everyone with an interest in the mountain to put their ideas and concerns in writing during the next month to assist our decision making,” says Councillor Sefuiva. Public consultation runs from 24 January to 7 March, with a range of ways for people to have their say and comment on the cone. There will also be another chance to comment when the revised draft management plan is released for comment in July 2005.

Maungawhau Mt Eden is one of Auckland's most treasured volcanic cones and more than 1.2 million people and 270,000 vehicles visit the mountain each year.

At 196 meters, it is the highest of Auckland's volcanoes and is protected by the Reserves and Historic Places Act, and the Isthmus District Plan.

Note to Editors: There are five ways people can have their say and comment on the cone: Have your say online at www.aucklandcity.govt.nz/mteden

Come along to see the display 11am to 2pm, Saturday 5 February next to the Scout Hall, Tahaki Reserve, 250 Mt Eden Road.

Take part in a special Maungawhau Mt Eden walk guided by experts and iwi representatives, 2pm Saturday 5 February. Meet at the Scout Hall, Tahaki Reserve, 250 Mt Eden Road. Please wear sturdy shoes.

Post your comments to Auckland City, community planning, Private Bag 92 516, Wellesley Street, Auckland before Monday 7 March.

Visit the display at the Epsom Community Library before Monday 7 March.

ENDS

© Scoop Media