FMC pushing for public access to Twizel’s backyard
Omahau Hills, the “Port Hills” of Twizel are currently going through the tenure review process. FMC is pushing for increased public access including a low-level track linking Twizel with Lake Ohau and complementing other local tracks.
The public access currently proposed includes easements on old 4WD routes to the high point at 1400 metres, but does not include any options for improved lower-level access in an area that is increasingly moving from rural to residential. FMC sees huge opportunities in the review including the off-roading of the Alps to Ocean cycleway and increased opportunities for locals to participate in family friendly walking and biking right from their back doorstep.
Read FMC’s full submission here: Omahau Hill submission
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We’re excited to share the new FMC Executive Committee, taking office on June 1 2026.
For over ten years, FMC has been involved in efforts to protect the Waitaha River. FMC made its first submission opposing the scheme in 2016, celebrated it being declined in 2019, and has spent the past 12 months fighting for a voice through the Fast-Track process. Throughout it all, FMC has been advocating for the Waitaha, publicly and behind the scenes.
FMC has submitted on a proposed land exchange that would see 29.7 hectares of conservation land in the eastern Ruahine Forest Park swapped for 170 hectares of private land, to enable the construction of a dam and reservoir on the Makaroro River.
