Invercargill Council Moves Forward With Land Sales

• Invercargill City Council progresses land sale at Awarua after reserve status clarification.
• Te Rūnanga o Awarua suggests land be considered for cultural or housing purposes.
• Two sections already listed for sale with additional marketing planned after approvals.

The Invercargill City Council is advancing the sale of land parcels at Awarua, south of the city, following recent administrative adjustments. Initially, the council approved the sale of four sections on Awarua Bay Road in February but sought reserve status revocation for only two. It later emerged all four parcels required this process, prompting a new council paper, which was approved without debate.

Public consultation on the land’s disposal had been held previously, with one submission from Te Rūnanga o Awarua. While the rūnanga did not oppose the sale, they encouraged the council to consider using one or two parcels for cultural or housing initiatives, such as a wāhi nohoanga or papakāinga. The rūnanga emphasised the area’s tribal significance and whakapapa connections.

Council officials, including parks and recreation manager Caroline Rain, have stated they are working with Te Ao Mārama, the body representing Ngāi Tahu in regional resource management, to ensure rūnanga are kept informed about the process.

Two parcels of land with revoked reserve status are currently for sale, with progress to be discussed in an upcoming council meeting. The remaining parcels will be marketed once their status change is complete.

One section, leased for $1 annually, is used for gardening and includes a greenhouse. The lessee hopes to purchase it, pending a reasonable offer. Another landowner on Awarua Bay Road has also expressed interest in acquiring adjacent land.

The council acknowledged encroachment issues between some sections and neighbouring properties, which may affect future sales.