In response to a media report regarding short-term visitor accommodation in Lake Tekapo, Mackenzie District Council acknowledges the concerns raised by members of the community and industry.
Council has already been actively working on the issues affecting the community. Additional budget was committed in both the 2025/2026 and 2026/2027 Annual Plans to fund additional resources for undertaking a compliance programme.
The Mayor and Councillors appreciate the benefits that accommodation providers deliver to Mackenzie, as well as the issues the growth in the number of these properties is causing within the community. Council has also met recently with the Tekapo Community Board and residents.
There is currently no national register for short-term visitor accommodation providers, but 937 properties already pay a portion of a targeted rate to Mackenzie District Council. Our District Plan rules require a resource consent where accommodation is provided for more than six* guests, or where there is more than one unit. Indications are that a significant number of properties will require a resource consent. This will become clearer as the compliance programme rolls out.
Mayor Scott Aronsen said the Council has taken concrete steps to respond.
“We understand that many residents want confidence that the rules around visitor accommodation are being followed consistently across the district. Investigative work is already underway and includes consideration of District Plan requirements, rates obligations, financial contributions, and Building Act compliance where appropriate,” Mayor Aronsen said.
“The Mayor and Councillors recognise the significant contribution accommodation providers make to the district’s economy and tourism sector. They also acknowledge the concerns raised by residents. Council’s role is to balance these interests by ensuring that applicable rules are followed.”
Compliance activity, depending on the circumstances, may include information gathering regarding individual properties, requirements for resource consents, site visits, ongoing monitoring, requests for further information, and formal enforcement action. Enforcement can include infringement notices and fines, as well as abatement notices requiring the activity to stop.
Some investigations may be resolved quickly, while others may take considerably longer depending on the issues involved and the steps required to achieve compliance. Council’s role is to apply the rules properly and consistently, rather than predetermine the outcome for any individual property.
“It is important that people understand this is not a process that can be rushed,” Mayor Aronsen said. “Every property must be assessed on its own circumstances, evidence must be carefully considered, and Council must act within the powers and processes set out in legislation.”
Compliance work of this nature is complex and requires a careful, evidence-based approach.
The compliance programme is already underway, and some accommodation providers have already been contacted. Activity will increase over the coming months and become more visible within the community.
“While this work may not always be visible to the public, investigations are underway and the community will see increased compliance activity over the coming months. Our responsibility is to ensure the rules are applied fairly and consistently, not to predetermine outcomes for any individual property,” said Mayor Aronsen.
Reports of potential non-compliance are encouraged. The community should report concerns through Council’s usual channels, as this information assists Council in prioritising and undertaking its investigations.
Read more about Visitor Accommodation at mackenzie.govt.nz > Rates, Building and Property > Visitor Accommodation
[*Edited to correct error: original said more than seven guests.]