Agencies unite to secure future of Macetown road
The Outdoor Access Commission was one of several organisations to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) in Arrowtown, marking a major step toward securing long-term public access to the historic Macetown road. The agreement brings together Queenstown Lakes District Council, the Department of Conservation (DOC), Land Information New Zealand (LINZ), QEIINT, Mahu Whenua Open Space covenants, Soho Property Limited, the Outdoor Access Commission, and pastoral leaseholders.
Macetown road, an iconic farm track linking Arrowtown to the gold rush-era ghost town of Macetown, is a popular route for 4WD enthusiasts, motorbike riders, trampers, mountain bikers, runners, and gold prospectors. Despite its popularity, the track has never been legally constituted as a road. Heavy use and more than 20 river crossings have led to significant wear. Without coordinated action, the route risks becoming impassable.
The current situation is complicated. No entity is currently responsible for maintenance. There is a complex mix of landowners involving LINZ-managed pastoral lease land, DOC-managed marginal strips, and LINZ-managed riverbed.
The Commission's chief executive Dan Wildy highlighted the importance of collaboration:
"This MOU secures access for everyone who values this part of Otago’s heritage. We are committing to work together so that 4WDers, bikers, and other recreationists can continue to enjoy Macetown road without compromising its future."
Alongside the MOU, the community is also working on installing gates to manage 4WD traffic and extend track life. The Overseas Investment Office previously recommended formalising access on the Macetown road as part of an overseas purchase of some of the pastoral lease land along the road
The agreement formalises public access and develops a framework for sustainable use of the road. The MOU commits the partners to the safe management and long-term preservation of the track.
The Outdoor Access Commission has played a pivotal role advocating for access along the road, supporting the memorandum and committing to cover a portion of the survey costs of Coronet Peak Station access easements.
"The Outdoor Access Commission’s leadership has been critical," Wildy said. "Everyone involved is ensuring that public access isn’t just protected for today, but for generations to come."
This MOU will help keep the road open, accessible and sustainable for the thousands of locals and visitors who treasure it.