Call for fair treatment of users in proposed car park charging scheme at Aoraki/Mount Cook

The Department of Conservation (DOC) is trialing a car parking fee at the White Horse Hill car park in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, and Federated Mountain Clubs (FMC) is urging DOC to ensure the proposed system does not unfairly penalise backcountry users.

White Horse Hill is a key departure point for both day visitors and multi-day trampers. While FMC acknowledges the need to manage growing congestion, particularly from day use, it stresses that backcountry users—who make up only a small fraction of the total visitors—must not bear the brunt of a problem they are not causing.

FMC has provided feedback to DOC and looks forward to reviewing the proposed pricing model once it becomes available. Successful implementation of this trial will depend on a clear and cost-effective plan. There are real costs to setting up this system—hardware, staffing, compliance, signage, and maintenance. These must be weighed against realistic revenue projections and potential impacts, including on surrounding areas like Mount Cook Village.

As DOC moves forward with this pilot, FMC encourages a balanced and transparent approach that supports conservation outcomes without undermining backcountry access or penalising those working to protect it.

Photo: Sunrise over Hooker Valley by Ray Salisbury