News release
1 March 2007

Having your say on Battle Hill’s future

Greater Wellington is calling for suggestions and comments on the draft management plan for Battle Hill Farm Forest Park – a unique resource near Pauatahanui that blends traditional hill country farming, forestry and environmental restoration.

A review of the park’s management plan began last year when Greater Wellington asked statutory agencies, iwi and the public for their views on the park. The feedback, which showed that people placed a high value on the park’s facilities and natural resources, was incorporated into a new draft management plan for the park.

“I hope the public takes the opportunity to comment on the draft plan. The park is a gem – it has very strong educational values and is popular with schools as it’s one of the few places in the country where children can easily access a working farm,” says Greater Wellington Landcare Committee Chair Cr Chris Laidlaw.

“The park also has important natural values, with a small but significant remnant forest, wetland areas and streamside planting in the context of a working farm. Community groups have made a great contribution to our native planting and pest control programmes, which has led to improved wildlife habitats and more native birds.”

The draft plan recognises that there will be significant changes in and around Battle Hill, which will have an impact on the character of the park. In the next few years forestry operations on the north face of the park will begin, Puketiro wind farm site may be developed and there are potential impacts from the proposed ‘Transmission Gully’ state highway. Although the draft plan accommodates these activities, policies have been put in place to help reduce the effects on the park.

Consultation on the draft management plan ends on 13 April 2007. Greater Wellington will hold a public meeting on Wednesday 28 March, venue to be confirmed.

For copies of the draft plan or a submission form, visit our website www.gw.govt.nz or contact Greater Wellington Planning and Policy Advisor Fiona Shaw on 04 381 7784.

ENDS

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