Removals explained

Waimarino Bulletin, Volume 6, Issue 266, 6 December 1988, Page 4

Removals explained

I am issuing this statement about the fate of the buildings and facilities at Waikune Prison so that the reasons behind the decision are public.

I must admit to personally being bitterly disappointed with both

the decision and the manner of its making. Background - When the prison property was vacated in September 1986 it was handed to Landcorp to undertake caretaking duties and arrange final disposal of the property. To date the caretaking/security functions have cost Justice approximately $500,000. Disposal of the land has not eventuated for a number of reasons:- • There has been at least one Maori Land Claim issued (I understand application has been made under Section 452 of the Maori Affairs Act). • The town and eountry planning zoning of the property. When the prison designation is uplifted the Rural 3 zoning applies. This inhibits development for other than farming or rural purpose. • Section 40 Public Works Act provisions apply. These have not been determined but it is expected that apart from the areas having significant physical improvement the property may be required to be offered back to former Maori owners. • The sewage system for the complex includes an oxidation pond on former State Forest Land. Should the Crown sell the former State Forest Land to an SOE it will be subject to resumptive rights. With these impediments it is not realistic to expect an early sale of the property. Current Position -

The Department of Justice is removing usable buildings and equip-

ment and relocate them for use at Tongariro and Rangipo Prison Farms. The 23 houses will be put up for sale and removal. The remaining buildings will be

demolished and the land put over for grazing. This course of action will stop the continued outgoing of funds for caretaking/security services and also produce

some revenue by leasing the property for grazing. This course of action will allow the land Situation to be resolved in an orderly fashion.

Noel

Scott

Tongariro M.P.