The Department of Conservation, in association with the Queenstown Lakes District Council as well as several local 4WD clubs and Coronet Peak Station, has taken steps to limit the continued vehicle damage to Macetown, while still allowing access to the public.

Several new measures will be put in place to attempt to protect the historic area.  These include restricting vehicles to the formed legal road to the north end of the township, and closing all side roads.  There will also be a locked gate at the north end of the town above the Richburn.

"These measures have been absolutely necessary to protect the remnants of one of our most popular historic reserves," said Wakatipu Area Manager, Greg Lind.

"Initially total closure of vehicle access to the reserve was considered - the damage was that bad."

Although vehicle access will now be restricted to formed roads, DOC has been working hard to ensure that access will still be available to all visitors.

"We are allowing vehicle access to the north end of the town, providing they stick to the formed roads.  From there, foot and mountain bike access will be available," said Mr Lind.

Mr Lind is thrilled with the cooperation of local authorities and interest groups to help address the problem.

"Those groups have come together to create and install new signage for Macetown, promoting a stronger presence in the area in the future.  The groups hope that the rest of the community will work with them to report any infringements."

"It is a shame that the irresponsible behaviour of a few individuals has affected the enjoyment of other visitors to the reserve."

Macetown has suffered badly in recent times.  In October, one of the last remaining historic huts was burnt down, while more recently, the windows of the Needham's Bakery were smashed.   However, it is the continued and escalating damage to the landscape by 4x4 vehicles and motorcycle activity in the Macetown Reserve which has been the biggest problem.

By: Kiri