Councillors heard passionate submissions in support of Coopers Creek’s long-term future and community.
- The domain’s management plan includes a proposal for 21-year licences with renewal rights.
- Some locals say council favours conservation over community and want permanent village recognition.
The future of a small, offbeat village inside Sandy Point Domain near Invercargill remains up in the air, as councillors heard submissions this week on the area’s long-term management. Related: Status Quo Remains For Coopers Creek Village
Coopers Creek, which sits roughly 20 minutes from the city, has been home to a group of cribs since the 1950s. When the domain gained reserve status in 1992, residents were allowed to stay on under annual licences. In September, Invercargill City Council voted to replace these with a single 21-year licence, with rights of renewal up to a maximum of 35 years.
This change formed part of the domain's wider management plan, which was the focus of public consultation and a recent hearing. Among those speaking was local historian and former councillor Lloyd Esler, who said he hoped the village would continue to be part of the domain's future.
"I'm pleased that the council has decided to extend their mandate to stay on. [I'm] disappointed in the way that it's not indefinite, because they're continuing a very useful tradition," Esler said.
In his written statement, he argued the council had flexibility when it came to applying rules and believed the presence of residents added safety and security that outweighed any rule breaches.
Others echoed this call for a more permanent solution. Kath and Brian McDonagh suggested the village could remain indefinitely if the council amended its 10-year management plan.
"That may seem radical to some, however it will eliminate any need for revocation or freehold, not to mention the years-long battles between council and villagers that wear everyone down," said Kath.
They also criticised the council for putting conservation ahead of people. Kerry Hapuku and Bob McMurdo said their preferred tenure options had been overlooked and called on elected representatives to listen more closely to the residents.
"At what point will our own elected members take into consideration what the residents want? We want the village to remain in perpetuity."
They added the current situation was created when the council gave the domain reserve status after the village had already been established.
At the earlier council meeting in September, mana whenua representative Evelyn Cook reminded councillors that leaseholders needed to understand the limitations of living in such a unique area. She raised concerns about the long-term implications of issuing extended leases.
There are currently 17 leaseholders in Coopers Creek. A total of 51 submissions were made during the public consultation, which ran from November to January.
Issues raised extended beyond housing and included vehicle access, dog walking, horse trekking and the idea of a visitor centre.
The recommendations from the hearings panel will be presented to the full council for a decision. Final approval for the management plan must come from the Minister of Conservation.