Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) is asking the community to share their thoughts on a draft Development Plan for Arrowtown Riverside Reserves, a network of public reserves that line the Haehaenui Arrow River.

QLDC Parks Manager Dave Winterburn encouraged recreational users and local residents to read the proposed plan and provide feedback on what they like and if they think anything is missing.

“The Arrowtown Riverside Reserves are a group of community reserves that span 20.5 hectares and are a popular destination for locals and visitors to the district. They’re well-loved for walking and cycling trails, heritage features, skatepark and pump track facilities, backcountry 4WD and horse-riding access.”

“We’re keen to hear how the community want to use and enjoy this area and if they support the long-term vision set out in the plan,” Mr Winterburn said.

QLDC Parks and Reserves Planner Sophie Craig shared the key elements included in the plan that help ensure the area is preserved while benefiting the needs of the local community.

“A key part of what the plan looks to improve is the connectivity between the reserves and the waterways and opportunities for all users to safely enjoy shared spaces. We’ve tried to reduce the chance of potential issues by separating pedestrians, cyclists and vehicles to support the flow of movement and access through the reserves.”

“The plan also aims to enhance how the reserves are used by providing and protecting areas where people can relax, play, and connect with nature. It includes measures to protect these types of recreation areas from the gradual creep of informal car parking, while preserving their character and unique Arrowtown feel,” Ms Craig said.

All are invited to come along to chat with the Parks team at a drop-in session held on Tuesday 26 August between 6.00 – 8.00pm at the Athenaeum Hall located at 33 Buckingham Street in Arrowtown.

The draft Arrowtown Riverside Reserves Concept Development Plan, a range of supporting materials and a feedback form are available to view online at letstalk.qldc.govt.nz.

Public engagement closes on Sunday 21 September. Following this, changes will be incorporated into the draft concept plan based on community feedback. The final plan will then be presented to the QLDC Community & Services Committee to consider recommending it to Full Council for adoption in early 2026.

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