Arrowtown, Fresh Zealand – A new managed access system for Macetown Road, the challenging four-wheel-drive track leading to the historic Macetown gold mining settlement, goes live on Monday. Vehicle users and motorbike riders will now be required to purchase a permit online to obtain the gate access code, marking a significant shift in access to this popular backcountry route.
The move comes after a decision by the Queenstown Lakes District Council in 2024 to cease funding for the road’s maintenance and repairs, despite having no legal obligation to do so. The need for a sustainable funding model prompted collaboration between ten key stakeholders, including the council, the Outdoor Access Commission, the Department of Conservation (DOC), and Soho Property Ltd, to develop a solution that ensures continued public access. The historic road, although often referred to as such, is not legally classified as a road or paper road, meaning there are no legal easements guaranteeing vehicle access.
A gate was installed in December but remained unlocked until now. The system utilizes a CCTV camera with number plate recognition technology to monitor access. Walkers and mountain bikers will continue to have free access via a ‘squeeze barrier’ built alongside the gate, while horse riders can obtain the access code through the permit system at no cost.
According to Queenstown four-wheel-driving enthusiast Kevin Marlow, who has been instrumental in the project, public response has been “overwhelmingly positive,” despite some misinformation circulating on social media. “The main misconception has been that the track’s a legal road, but that’s never been the case,” Marlow explained.
The permit system will cost $40 per trip for vehicles and motorbikes. Queenstown Lakes residents have the option of purchasing an annual pass for $100. All revenue generated from these fees will be directly allocated to an annual road maintenance and improvement program, utilizing the services of Jones Contracting, the same contractor previously used by the council. More details on the system can be found in the Otago Daily Times.
Macetown itself is a preserved piece of New Zealand’s gold rush history, offering visitors a glimpse into the lives of miners who once inhabited the remote settlement in the Arrow Gorge. The area is popular not only for 4WD adventures but too for hiking, biking, and exploring the remnants of aged buildings and the Homeward Bound Stamper Battery. Arrowtown.com provides further information on the trails and history of Macetown.
The establishment of a formal framework to secure long-term access to Macetown Road is a collaborative effort aimed at balancing recreational employ with the need for environmental protection and sustainable maintenance. The Shotover 4WD Club has been actively involved in advocating for continued access.
The Outdoor Access Commission played a key role in bringing together the various stakeholders. Herenga ā Nuku Aotearoa, the Outdoor Access Commission, details their involvement in securing the future of Macetown Road.
Looking ahead, the success of the permit system will be closely monitored to ensure it provides sufficient funding for ongoing road maintenance and preserves access for all users. The collaborative approach adopted by the ten interested parties provides a model for managing access to other popular backcountry areas in the region.
What are your thoughts on the new permit system? Share your comments below and let us know how this change will affect your plans to visit Macetown.
