Time is running out for Taupō residents and businesses to have their say on the future of one of the region's crucial winter tourism assets, with public submissions on Whakapapa's operating license closing this Friday night.
Whakapapa Holdings Limited (WHL), directed by Dave Mazey, Tom Elworthy and Bridget Legnavsky, has applied to the Department of Conservation for a ten-year lease to operate the ski field. The three directors bring over 75 years of combined experience in New Zealand's ski and tourism industry.
The company states the proposal aims to strengthen the current situation for the region, particularly for those with accommodation, jobs, and businesses in the area.
The application outlines immediate plans to invest in new snowmaking equipment, replace aging grooming machinery, and maintain all existing lifts, including the western lifts. This investment could provide crucial certainty for Taupō's accommodation providers and hospitality businesses that rely on winter visitors.
WHL has already begun community engagement through local hui with stakeholders, including regional tourism operators and local businesses. The company says it will "go further and get there faster through open discussion and hui."
The proposed ten-year license term, which includes a review after five years, is described by WHL as striking "a balance between providing short-term operational certainty while allowing flexibility to address longer-term planning."
Submissions can be made on the Department of Conservation website until 11:59pm Friday, February 7. The company is encouraging all interested parties to submit their views, whether in support or opposition.