4WD access: Kopuwai Conservation Area

[Jerry]

REPOST FROM THE NZ4WD Forum.....



We have just received this from DOC

4WD access: Kopuwai Conservation Area



To 4WD Clubs from

Department of Conservation, Central Otago Users Forum and Otago 4WD Club

1 July 2008



In response to the increasing track use on the Old Woman and Old Man
Ranges the DOC has installed signs in the Kopuwai Conservation Area.
This is in response to growing demand for suitable tracks for 4WD use,
walking and mountain biking.



There has already been feedback on the signs and what further
information could be useful to users. A brochure is being produced with
a map and additional information. Adjoining landowners have been
consulted. Jenny Simmons, Co-chair of the Central Otago Users Forum
(CORUF) and a Central Otago 4WD Club member said "DOC's effort to
provide good information about vehicle opportunities is supported by
recreation users and 4WD clubs."



The signs promote the tracks within the Conservation Area that DOC
maintains, and those that provide access to the conservation area.



Current 4WD tracks Kopuwai Conservation Area are:

1. From Duffers Saddle, on the Nevis Road, south past the Old Woman
Hut to the Conservation Area Boundary - approximately 3-4 km beyond the
Old Woman Hut.

2. From Symes Road to the Obelisk and from Symes Road 17 km via
Hyde Rock and the head of Fraser Basin, to just before Boundary Hut.
3. Waikaia Bush Road



DOC, CORUF and the Central Otago 4WD Club ask that these tracks be used
responsibly.



Other tracks in the Conservation Area are not generally available for
4WD use because they are either:

Already significantly damaged

Are in a condition that they cannot be responsibly promoted for 4WD use
Involve sections outside the conservation area

A combination of all three



Those planning a 4WD trip on any other tracks within the Conservation
Area are encouraged to contact DOC.



A wider exercise of stakeholder consultation on the use of vehicle
tracks on public conservation land in Central Otago will be part of the
review of the Otago Conservation Management Strategy. This is planned
to begin towards the end of 2008. This will involve your 4WD club and
CORUF.



Contact

Amanda Ware (03) 440 2040 Jenny Simmons
(0272213308)

Programme Manager Co-Chairperson

Community Relations - Central Otago Central Otago
Recreational Users Forum

Department of Conservation