Application for Helicopter landings in westland

Application by Precision Helicopters Ltd for landings in the Hokitika backcountry Application by Precision Helicopters Ltd for landings in the Hokitika backcountry The Department of Conservation has publicly notified an application for a concession by Precision Helicopters Ltd for regular landings in the backcountry inland of Hokitika. The following landing sites are proposed: Miserable Ridge, Totara – Mikonui Forests, 5235685.9 E 1434610.5 N Mount Beamount, Wanganui/Otira Catchments, 5226180.6 E 1431831.2 N Remarkable Peak, Wanganui/Otira Catchments, 5230282.0 E 1431661.0 N Prices Flat, Wanganui/Otira Catchments, 5225476.9 E 1438039.3 N Whataroa Glacier, Waitangi Forest, 5191753.0 E 1399398.0 N Mount Greenland, Upper Totara Ecological Area, 5242431.0 E 1422382.0 N These are popular destinations for trampers seeking remote experiences away from civilization. FMC is thus strongly opposed to the application, and is writing a comprehensive submission. We would like to encourage our members and supporters to submit. Some of the points your submission could touch on include the following: The West Coast CMS states that “Concessions may be granted for regular aircraft landings within the backcountry-remote zone where adverse effects on conservation values, recreational users, remote or wilderness values can be avoided or otherwise minimised.” (p205) and “In the event of doubt, the operative parts of the CMS will be interpreted in favour of the intrinsic values identified at specific Places (see Volume I, Part 4, Chapter 4.2).” How would the proposed landings affect your experience as a tramper? How would granting this concession fit with the country’s 2050 zero carbon target? What is the effect of helicopter noise on our native wildlife? Are the roposed mitigation measures adequate? Is it appropriate for the Department of Conservation to grant a concession to an aircraft operator that openly advertised flights over a gazetted Wilderness Area Has the applicant provided sufficient information on relevant issues to support a decision the public can have confidence in? Submissions close 5 pm, Wednesday 19 August 2020. Send your submission to DNSubmissions@doc.govt.nz, including the words “Precision Helicopters Limited submission” in the email’s subject line