The cash-strapped Department of Conservation (DOC) is undertaking a review of its property portfolio in the Central Otago district, which stretches from Makarora to Ranfurly.

DOC South Island operations director Aaron Fleming told the Wānaka App the review was taking place “to future-proof our operations for the future”.

It includes investigating the feasibility of a new site in Cromwell, he said.

Aaron did not specify what the review could mean for DOC offices, including the base in Wānaka.

“There is a possibility some roles may be relocated as part of this, however a process would need to be run with our staff before any decisions are made.”

DOC manages and maintains assets across Central Otago, as well as undertaking biodiversity, predator control, community work and concessions authorisations.

DOC’s briefing to incoming conservation minister Tama Potaka at the beginning of this year advised that the department manages more assets than it can afford to maintain in the long term.

DOC proposed a range of funding scenarios to the incoming government for “a more sustainable activity and asset base”, and said the government would need to consider the costs and benefits of growing versus maintaining or reducing conservation assets and services.

Read more: DOC dilemma: locals frustrated, tourists ‘laughing at us’

PHOTO: Wānaka App