DoC brings in plan to protect famous spring

The Department of Conservation has implemented a management plan to protect New Zealand's largest freshwater spring.

Te Waikoropupu Springs in Golden Bay, which are internationally renowned for their water clarity, attract 50,000-60,000 visitors annually.

Nelson/Marlborough Conservation Board chairwoman Judy Hellstrom said the plan would guide how DOC managed the site and surrounding reserve for the next 10 years.

It aimed to protect the natural, cultural, historic and scenic values of the area and maintain the reserve as a place visitors enjoy for its natural quiet and tranquillity.

The plan prohibited contact with the water of the Main Spring and Dancing Sand Spring, but allowed drift-diving and swimming in Fish Creek from an access point below the carpark, she said.

"These provisions are for the protection of the natural environment, as damage to vegetation and the bed of the springs was occurring where divers used to get in and out of the Main Spring," Ms Hellstrom said.

This would also help maintain the natural quiet of the area and recognised the concern of local Maori that bodily contact with the water was inappropriate given the site's wahi tapu status, she said.

The plan limited commercial recreation activities to guided walking tours and one-off group activities, with walking groups limited to no more than 20 people and two guides.

The plan was developed in consultation with the public and approved by the Nelson/Marlborough Conservation Board.

- NZPA