The village is home to some unique structures, including this miniature stone cottage. Photo: Matthew Rosenberg/LDR
A local historian is among those advocating for the long-term future of a remote village situated precariously within an Invercargill reserve.
Homeowners may eventually need to abandon their cribs in Coopers Creek - a small, quirky settlement surrounded by bush within Sandy Point Domain.
On Tuesday, councillors heard from a range of people who supported the unconventional settlement and the residents' unique traditions.
Cribs have inhabited the area since around 1950 and were allowed to stay on under an annual licence arrangement after the domain gained reserve status in 1992.
In September, councillors voted to replace those licences with a single 21-year licence - including rights of renewal to a maximum of 35 years - in hopes it would put an end to the anomaly.
That approach was consulted on as part of the domain's management plan, which went to a hearing this week.
Proceedings began with a submission from local historian and former-councillor Lloyd Esler, who hoped there was a long-term future for villagers.
"I'm pleased that the council has decided to extend their mandate to stay on. [I'm] disappointed in the way that it's not indefinite, because they're continuing a very useful tradition."
Coopers Creek is a small village located in Sandy Point Domain, about 20 minutes from Invercargill. Photo: Matthew Rosenberg/LDR
Esler's written submission said the council had flexibility over the interpretation of rules.
He felt having residents in the area afforded security which outweighed any non-compliance.
Kath and Brian McDonagh also believed the village should exist in perpetuity, saying it was possible if the council amended its 10-year management plan.
"That may seem radical to some, however it will eliminate any need for revocation or freehold, not to mention the years-long battles between council and villagers that wear everyone down," Kath said.
The pair felt the council prioritised conservation over people when it came to the domain.
Kerry Hapuku and Bob McMurdo also submitted in unison, saying the tenure options preferred by villagers had not been considered.
"At what point will our own elected members take into consideration what the residents want?
"We want the village to remain in perpetuity."
They pointed out in their written submission that the council had created the "dilemma" by granting reserve status to the domain after the village had already been built.
At the September meeting, mana whenua representative Evelyn Cook said leaseholders should be aware of limitations in living there.
Cook said mana whenua had a vested interest in the area, and was concerned issuing a longer lease with a right of renewal was a decision stretching beyond one generation.
There are 17 leaseholders at Coopers Creek.
A total of 51 submissions were received during the consultation process which ran from 9 November to 31 January.
Other topics raised included vehicle access, dog walking, horse trekking and a visitor centre.
The recommendations of the hearings panel will return to full council for either approval or rejection.
Final sign-off for the council's management plan is required from the Minister of Conservation.
LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.
