Media questions about accommodation compliance in Lake Tekapo.
Request
I'm just reaching out regarding the council's short-term accommodation compliance programme currently rolling out in Tekapo.
Specifically, what are the results of these investigations?
- What are the consequences of non-compliance? e.g. fine, new consents, etc
I understand there are fines and enforcement actions, but in the grand scheme of things, that's not changing these accommodations long-term.
Response
Around 60 property owners have been informed they must cease operating short-term visitor accommodation because their properties do not comply with the Mackenzie District Plan or the Building Act 2004. Where a property is managed by a property management company, that company must also ensure it complies with the relevant requirements.
Property owners are provided with information about what they need to do to comply, including the option of applying for a resource consent where appropriate.
If a property continues to operate without meeting the requirements, the Council may take enforcement action against both the property owner and, where relevant, the property management company. This can include issuing abatement notices or infringement notices, as well as recovering the costs of investigation and ongoing compliance monitoring.
We note your final comment. The compliance activity is in its early stages. The purpose of the compliance activity being undertaken is to have short term visitor accommodation operating in accordance with existing rules and requirements.