Revamp for village at Whakapapa planned

Ruapehu Bulletin, 19 September 1995, Page 8 (Supplement)

Revamp for village at Whakapapa planned

New car parking facilities, safer footpaths and street lighting are included in a proposed development plan for Whakapapa Village in Tongariro National Park. The plan, which has developed over a two-year period was discussed at a recent meeting of the Tongariro/Taupo Conservation Board. Mr Herwi Scheltus, a landscape architect for the Department of Conservation based in Turangi told board members that some changes would be controversial, but that any work carried out would be done within the

constraints of the Tongariro National Park Management Plan which had been in place since 1989. The park's management plan required that a development plan for the village be prepared. Within Tongariro National Park, Whakapapa Village has been designated as an amenities area which allows for facilities and services not normally permitted within a national park. Mr Scheltus said that DoC staff had spent considerable time identifying the problems and requirements of the villagers and visitors to the area and, within the

constraints of the park's management plan, had reviewed the changes that were needed. Discussions had been held with residents and all service groups who also have an interest in the village. No absolutes Mr Scheltus noted that the department was aware that there was no absolute solution to some of the problems. However, every effort was being made to meet the service needs of the public while still protecting the fragile nature of the sub-alpine environment.

Chain-fitting and new car parking areas were likely to be the two most controversial issues in the plan, but the department believed the addition of a public shelter, toilets and safer pedestrian and road access would be well received by both village residents and visitors alike. On the whole the plan was well received by the Conservation Board. Ms Pauline Taylor, a member of the Tongariro/Taupo Conservation Board and summer and winter visitor to the park said she was pleased with the direction the plan was going in.