Thread: Hangawera whats going on?

ok, so my understanding was that after a complaint, the council inspected the site and decreed that it was a change in land use and therefore required a consent to operate (land use change from farming to shooting). IMO, the council have declined to use any common sense in realising that the ~$10k+ consent application and investigation fee is grossly disproportionate compared to the amount of time the range is used and that is still part of the farm.

Not sure what can be done or who could be talked with to get the council to review their decision about resource consent? Mayor? Local MP? The range was set up by and is organised by volunteers and isn't a commercial entity. The range at Hangawera is a great place to shoot but is not used that often (and not anymore since the council have required consent) - I will be quite disappointed to see it close.

As above my understanding is that H&S had nothing to do with it and that the station owners and manager are quite happy having it there - in fact they have been incredibly supportive.

Of course, I am not involved at all and so all of the above reflects my opinion and not necessarily fact. With that in mind if someone reads this that has a good idea on how to deal with the council about this or wants to help out then get in touch and I can put you in touch with Harry.