Media Release

4WD recreational track opened on Denniston Plateau

A recreational 4-wheel drive track has been opened on public conservation land on the Denniston Plateau, Buller, in a joint initiative between the Department of Conservation, Solid Energy New Zealand Ltd and the Buller 4WD Club.

The Denniston 4WD Loop Track is an 11 km round trip journey on rugged tracks which were originally created years ago for coal exploration. Most of the 4WD track is through a sub-alpine native environment, with stunning views over the Tasman Sea.

The wild and dramatic plateau is home to a range of low growing alpine plants which have adapted to the harsh environment, along with a range of native wildlife. The track also passes close to the former Sullivan West and Sullivan Mine sites, currently being rehabilitated by Solid Energy and which feature historical mining relics.

Solid Energy proposed the 4WD track as part of the site rehabilitation, carrying out minor earthworks at track junctions to delineate the route. Remaining tracks outside the route and the mine sites will be progressively revegetated over the coming years.

The track will test specialised 4WD vehicles and is not suitable for inexperienced drivers or domestic vehicles. Off track 4WD activities which can damage habitats and species or erode the landscape are prohibited and could lead to a ban on all vehicles on the plateau to prevent further damage.

Access to the track is through a locked gate controlled by the Department of Conservation's Westport office.

A map and information brochure will be available in the New Year. Contact DoC on 03 788 8008 for further information.

For more information contact Vicki Blyth,
Communications Director,
Solid Energy New Zealand Ltd,
Telephone 03 345 6090,
Mobile 021 670 250

Location http://www.coalnz.com/index.cfm/1,209,640,0,html