Applications

Expressions of interest have now closed. Thank you to everyone who has submitted an expression of interest.

If your proposal progresses to the formal application stage, an application fee for a commercial recreation permit may apply.

Successful applicants will be subject to annual fees and may also be required to maintain the site they operate from.

Depending on the activity type, applicants may also need to apply for consents from local authorities and obtain consent from any affected parties. 

What’s on offer?

LINZ is inviting expressions of interest from businesses keen to activate one or more greenfield sites around the lake.

Whether your vision is for a lakeside wellness retreat, outdoor cinema, water activities hub, glamping experience, or outdoor education space — we want to hear from you.

 

Got a great business idea? Lake Dunstan’s green spaces could be the perfect place to bring it to life.

A tent lit up at night.

Photo credit: Chris Schog, Unsplash.

A man on a stand-up paddleboard on a lake.

Photo credit: James Lewis, Unsplash

A group of people practicing yoga outside with sunlight around them.

Photo credit: Marea Wellness, Unsplash

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Key dates

Expressions of interest are open until 5pm 10 October 2025.

You can apply for the following locations

Aerial view of part of the shore of Lake Dunstan

Jacksons

Aerial view of part of the shore of Lake Dunstan

Rocky Point

Aerial image of part of the shore of Lake Dunstan

Devil's Creek

Aerial view of part of the shore of Lake Dunstan

Lion's Lookout

What we're looking for

We’ll assess proposals based on the following criteria:

  • Community benefit
    Does the proposal create local jobs or training opportunities?
    Will it support or enhance the local community experience?
     
  • Tourism value
    Is the proposal tourism focused and likely to attract visitors?
    Does it offer something unique or improve the visitor experience?
     
  • Commercial uniqueness
    To what extent does the proposed activity introduce new business opportunities to the area?
    How does the proposal address a gap in the market or respond to an identified need within the region?
    What evidence is provided to demonstrate the long-term viability of the business and the sustainability of the services offered? 
  • Environmental impact
    Are there clear plans to protect the lake and surrounding environment?
    How will you mitigate any potential pollution, waste and disruption to natural areas? 
    Are traffic / parking impacts adequately managed?
    How will the proposal ensure that any structures used are temporary in nature and do not result in ongoing liabilities for the Crown?
     
  • Biodiversity and ecology 
    Does the activity support native planting or habitat restoration?
    Will it help protect or enhance local wildlife and ecosystems?
     
  • Recognition of local culture
    Does the activity acknowledge and respect local iwi and cultural heritage?
An aerial view of Lake Dunstan with four markers with to show the location of the following lots. Rocky Point is at the most northern point of Lake Dunstan. Below is Lion's Lookout, Devil's Creek and Jacksons.

Please note: The images featured on this page are indicative only and are intended to represent the types of activities that may take place on or around the lake.