Ngā Kairauhi Papa | Forever protected
Please contact us if your question is not addressed here.
We agree on terms of protection, and ensure that those terms are complied with. That usually means making sure the protected area is stock-proof, and that things like harvest, clearing, and development are prohibited.
Regular monitoring means we can keep track of trends in the condition of the protected land, and help you to identify and manage threats to the protected values.
Our protection has withstood several challenges in Court. We are not afraid to fully commit to defending land we have agreed to protect.
Most of the private land we protect contains significant native biodiversity values. However, we also protect several historical and archaeological sites, as well as areas with high scenic and recreational values.
This depends on the specifics of the project, particularly on fencing requirements, but generally the process takes around two years.
Most land we protect only allows public access with prior permission from landowners.
When you protect your land, you decide whether you want to allow the public a right to access the protected area. If you are unsure if there is access, you can always ask us.
Your rep can be found through this map. If you are unsure, you can contact us.
Each protected area is unique, but in general you can still access the protected land so that you can enjoy the special area you have protected. This includes things like using tracks, infrastructure, and amenities, as well as hunting and other recreational activities.
In consultation with your Rep, you can usually build new walking and cycling tracks, as well as huts and other amenities to enhance your access and enjoyment of the protected area. Talk to your Rep to learn more.
Each protected area is unique, but in general you cannot subdivide the land, build houses, plant exotic species, harvest native species, light fires, or do anything to negatively affect the values of the protected area.
All landowner information is stored strictly in accordance with our privacy policy. Personal information is not disclosed without consent.
The land title in question will have an agreement registered on it. Often there will also be a sign on the fence around the protected area. If you aren’t sure, feel free to contact us.
We’re always keen to hear any information about activities which may jeopardise the values we protect. If you have concerns, please don’t hesitate to call your Regional Rep.
When we partner with landowners to protect land, that protection is in place forever.
New owners are subject to the restrictions in the covenant deed. See our buying protected land page for more information.
We have established a contestable fund for covenant enhancement projects, known as the Stephenson Fund. Talk to your Regional Rep if you have any questions about enhancing your protected land.
You can access publications on covenant management here. We also suggest you contact your Regional Rep if you have any questions.
We inform local authorities when land is protected. Each local authority has differing policies regarding rates remission for protected land. We are continually advocating for better remissions policies for land we protect.
