Discretionary pastoral activity decision - Planting Trees (Shelterbelt) - A6740365

For this decision summary:

• received the application before 17 November 2022
• accordingly, the decision was made under the Crown Pastoral Land Act 1998 excluding the amendments taking effect on 17 November 2022.

Planting Trees (Shelterbelt)

10 years with maintenance rights

For the part of the consent that was granted:

The Commissioner of Crown Lands has determined that granting consent to plant shelter belts in this area is important for animal welfare and soil conservation. The above conditions will protect the inherent values both landscape and ecological that can be adversely impacted through establishing trees in this environment.

For the part of the consent that was declined:

The Commissioner has determined that granting consent to plant shelter belts in this area will adversely affect inherent values on this site, particularly landscape. The desirability of making the land easier to farm does not justify this adverse impact.

Consent is granted in part for planting trees (shelterbelt), subject to the following conditions:

1. Douglas Fir and Pinus Radiata are not to be planted.
2. Chosen tree species (exotic or native) shall be limited to non-spreading species only. These are restricted to those specified within the “High country” approved list as per the brochure “The Right Tree for Your Place”.
3. The tree species selected for planting must be notified to Land Information New Zealand for approval prior to planting.
4. Areas approved for planting may be replanted should existing plantings be destroyed or not successfully establish.
5. Shelter belt trees are not to be planted within 20m of the boundary with the Tekapo Scientific Reserve.
6. Minor soil disturbance associated with planting is permitted e.g. digging a hole for planting in. Any soil disturbance associated with the tree planting shall be kept to the minimum necessary to carry out the planting.
7. The lessee is required to maintain regular inspections of their land and remove any wilding trees arising from the shelter belts. The lessees are to liaise with neighbouring landowners regards controlling any identified spread onto their land.
8. Any tools and equipment used when planting must be clean and free from soil and plant fragments (especially seeds).
9. All plants, mulch and/or soil going into the site, if any, must be free from weeds.
10. That all contractors and employees carrying out the planting are informed of the conditions of this consent prior to the works commencing. 

The Crown Pastoral Land Act 1998 provides that permission to undertake the activity may still be needed under other enactments.