Hanmer flyride gets green light
By David Hill, Local Democracy
A proposed Hanmer Springs flyride has been given the go ahead by the Environment Court.
But there are still a few bumps in the road.
The Environment Court issued an interim decision on Friday to reject an appeal by The Friends of Conical Hill Incorporated, three years after a Hurunui District Council appointed commissioner granted a resource consent.
The Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa had applied to install and operate a gravity-based recreation activity at Conical Hill Reserve.
Hurunui District Council chief executive Hamish Dobbie said the council is relieved to finally get a decision.
‘‘It is good news. It has taken a long time to get here, but at least we’ve got a decision.
‘‘We will need to work through the viability of the project and then the council can consider what it does next.’’
Dobbie said staff would prepare a report to present to the council early in the new year.
The project received $2 million from the Government's ‘‘Shovel Ready’’ fund in 2020.
When first proposed, the attraction was expected to create 23 jobs and inject $4m into the local economy in its first five years of operation.
Submitters opposed to the flyride said it would have a visual impact on the recreation character, biodiversity and horse trails in the area.
Concerns were also raised about parking, traffic congestion, noise, along with the risk of fire, and devaluation of properties.
In her decision, Judge Lauren Semple said she was satisfied the effects of the proposal could be managed under the Hurunui District Plan and the National Policy Statement on Indigenous Biodiversity.
Poll: Should we be giving the green light to new mining projects? 💰🌲
The Environmental Protection Authority announced this week that a proposed mine in Central Otago (near Cromwell) is about to enter its fast-track assessment process. A final decision could come within six months, and if it’s approved, construction might start as early as mid-2026.
We want to know: Should mining projects like this move ahead?
Keen to dig deeper? Mike White has the scoop.
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53.2% Yes
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46.8% No
‘Tis the season to not get scammed ...
As Christmas gift shopping moves increasingly online, scammers are ramping up their activity across the country.
Dunedin’s Investigation Support Unit is seeing more and more people fall victim to scams and other fraudulent activity, particularly on Facebook Marketplace.
There are a few ways to avoid the scams and keep yourself safe doing online trades this holiday season, says Southern District Service Delivery Manager Senior Sergeant Dalton.
🔒 “A good first step when looking to purchase something on Marketplace is to check when the seller’s Facebook profile was created. If it’s very recent, there is a higher risk that they have just created this account for a one-off fake item.”
🔒 Another important step is to make sure the seller’s profile name and bank account name match up. “We’re seeing a lot of scammers claiming their bank account name is different because it belongs to their partner or family member - that’s a huge red flag."
🔒 “When you’re selling, never trust a screenshot anyone sends you showing that payment has been made. Check your own bank account to make sure a payment has gone through."
🔒 “Quite frankly, it’s best for all parties to agree to pay, or be paid, for items in cash and in-person. Ideally in a public place with CCTV coverage."
🔒 "If you’re buying a car, check Carjam.co.nz to see if it’s stolen or if there’s money owed on it.”
A reminder: Suspicious activity can be reported on 105
Turn Wallpaper Scraps into Beautiful Blossoms
These blossoms made from Resene wallpaper left over after decorating will mean your décor will be blooming gorgeous, no matter the season. Find out how to create your own wallpaper flowers with these easy step by step instructions.
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