Conditions for motorised vehicle access

Access

This conservation area covers nearly 9,000 ha. Due to the fragile nature of the area and easement requirements, access needs to be carefully managed.

1. Public access to Lauder Basin Conservation Area is via easements on Lauder and Cluden Stations.  The easements are across private land and the lands bordering the conservation area are working high country stations. Visitors are welcome; however, please consider this on your journey and respect their livestock and property.
2. 4WD access is available from 1 December to 30 April during the drier summer months. The track may be closed during this period if conditions make the track vulnerable to damage. The Department of Conservation, Cluden and Lauder Station’s make no guarantee of the condition or accessibility of tracks. Closures will be posted in the alerts section on the Lauder Basin Conservation Area page. It is the permit holder's responsibility to check for closures prior to each trip - DOC will not contact you about these.
3. The easement across Lauder Station allows for motor vehicle use only, motor cycles and all terrain vehicles are not permitted.
4. Vehicles are not permitted on the Lauder and Cluden Station easements between 8pm and 7am.
5. There are locked gates, one at Lauder Station Rd car park, and one at the Cluden Creek car park. The code is the same at both locks and the code is provided once you have submitted your details to DOC. A button on the bottom of the lock needs to be pushed after you have put in the code. After going through the gate, please relock the padlock and randomise the numbers again.
6. Users are to check the DOC website or contact the Wanaka or Alexandra DOC offices prior to each trip as the code to the padlocks may change.
7. As part of the access agreement your name, mobile phone number and vehicle details will be provided to the Station holders. They may use this information to contact you about unplanned road closures due to weather or farming events, or if you are driving on their private property.

Safety

1. Check current track and weather conditions. This is an exposed alpine region; the weather can be unpredictable at any time of year.
2. Carry a map and GPS or compass with you, visibility can change very quickly.
3. Carry all necessary safety and spare equipment. Be prepared to stay out overnight if required.
4. Give way to drivers on the uphill grade.
5. Know your driving limitations and your vehicles limitations.
6. Mobile phone coverage is unreliable.
7. Leave your intentions with someone.

General

1. Guns may be transported on the easements but someone in the vehicle must hold a current hunting permit for the Lauder Basin Conservation Area.
2. Dogs are not permitted on the easements unless they are confined inside a vehicle.
3. Camping on the access easements or in the car parks is not permitted.
4. Use of the Easement Areas is entirely at your own risk.

Four wheel drive care code

Please follow the code of conduct to protect the environment and for the long-term sustainability of off-road driving.

• Avoid sensitive areas. Alpine landscapes, swamps, waterways, sand dunes and river beds are easily damaged by vehicles.
• Abide by the laws and regulations covering all vehicles and drivers.
• Stay on roads. Avoid widening them.
• Keep the environment clean. Take all your rubbish with you.
• Respect wildlife, look but don’t disturb. Keep your distance.
• Find out if a permit is required for access. If your trip crosses private land obtain permission.
• Leave gates as you find them.
• Always thoroughly clean your vehicle before and after trips to minimise spreading weeds and diseases.
• Respect the right of others for quiet enjoyment. Avoid noisy driving. Give way to walkers, cyclists, horse riders and others.
• Be prepared for the unexpected. Drive at a speed which will allow you to stop if a hazard arises.
• If winching is necessary, use another vehicle. If you must use a tree use webbing or padding to prevent damage to the tree.
• Cross waterways with care. Use designated crossings where possible