Integrating Nature Conservation with Hydro-Electric Development: Conflict Resolution with Lakes Manapouri and Te Anau, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

Abstract

ABSTRACT Thirteen years of public debate and protest followed the New Zealand Government's 1960 formal agreement with a multinational consortium to raise Lakes Manapouri (142 km2) and Te Anau (352 km2), in Fiordland National Park, to maximise hydro-electric generation for an aluminum smelter proposed by Comalco Ltd. This controversy was a major factor in the 1972 change of government which rejected lake raising and also appointed Guardians, from among the campaign leaders, to advise on lake management. Lake management guidelines were devised from geomorphological and ecological studies correlated with a 37-year lake level record. High, Main and Low Operating Ranges were recognised within the natural variation (Te Anau 3.5 m; Manapouri 4.8 m). High Operating Range defines both maximum duration at a particular level and minimum periods of subsequent lowering to satisfy ecological requirements of shoreline forest. Low Operating Range defines both draw-down rates (to prevent slumping of fine beach sediments) and maximum annual duration at particular levels (to prevent combing down and possible loss over narrow shelves, of beach sediments). Main Operating Ranges have negligible restrictions. The guidelines were verified in practice and incorporated in legislation in 1981. Monitoring of shoreline vegetation and beaches has confirmed achievement of objectives. Wide consultation, aimed at further conflict resolution and replacement of empowering legislation by consents under the 1991 Resource Management Act, was completed, with guidelines and monitoring incorporated, in 1996. We believe the scientifically based management guidelines have effectively integrated nature conservation with hydro-electric development in Fiordland National park, a World Heritage Area since 1986. This approach should be applicable to natural lakes elsewhere.