Thread: Nelson lakes ballot

Hi all
Anybody know if the Nelson lakes blocks are balloted this year? Ie around the matakitaki..
Cheers

Not happening this year. Unfortunately there wasn't enough uptake in previous ballots to make it worth continuing.

Yes. It is public access up the valley but the local land owner makes it difficult.

Thanks heaps, just want to make sure if I climb into the tops that I won’t be stomping on someone’s ballot..

Originally Posted by Jus

Thanks heaps, just want to make sure if I climb into the tops that I won’t be stomping on someone’s ballot..

If your heading up the west branch look up the thread on here from a few years ago called 'block 5' it may be of interest to you

Sent from my SM-G950F using Tapatalk

Hey hello, :-)
In 2026 Matakitaki will see us for some 15nish days. Want to go the far end.
To save some Energy i thought about getting a lift in the first part to Downies hut eg by someone with a Quad or a Pickup Truck.
Idea came up as i saw some wheel tracks in google earth.

But thats digital knowledge ...
pushing some Questions

So, is it allowed to Drive Up to Downies hut?
And are there some local Guys, eg Farmers, close by who May be happy to provide the lift?

Greatfull for some advice :-)

Hey 👋 that was quick :-)
Many thanks for the info!
May I send you a direct message?

Someone doesn't get sole use of that area from my understanding. It is only the ability to land there in a helicopter. Anyone can still walk into and hunt those ballots.

Originally Posted by 300wsm for life

Someone doesn't get sole use of that area from my understanding. It is only the ability to land there in a helicopter. Anyone can still walk into and hunt those ballots.

Correct. Same as the Tahr ballots.

Several people pulled out last time due to the WARO activity in the time leading up to this kicking in.

WARO have always been allowed in that area but very rearly shoot it as it isn't worth it to them. There are plenty of animals in there, hence DoC trying to encourage recreational hunters in there.

Didn't know that thanks @Shearer, off to rob a bank for the helicopter cost.

Originally Posted by Happy Jack

Didn't know that thanks @Shearer, off to rob a bank for the helicopter cost.

Easier to steal a chopper

Originally Posted by Sharki

Easier to steal a chopper

Yes but the kidnap charge would be too much since I can't fly one.

Originally Posted by Sharki

Easier to steal a chopper

It's been done before