Mackenzie District Council — Property Due Diligence Guide
Mackenzie District Council governs the iconic Mackenzie Country in the South Island high country, with a population of approximately 5,000. The district encompasses Lake Tekapo (Takapo), Twizel, and Fairlie, and is the gateway to Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park.
Quick Facts
Useful Links
How to Order a LIM Report
Contact Mackenzie District Council directly to order a LIM. Standard processing takes 10 working days.
Mackenzie LIMs cover building consents, resource consents, rates, zoning, and natural hazard overlays. Given the tourism-driven property market, check for any short-term accommodation restrictions or resource consent requirements.
The alpine environment means specific building requirements for cold weather, snow loading, and water supply. Many properties rely on on-site water and wastewater systems.
District Plan Zones
Mackenzie's District Plan includes:
- Residential Zone: Town residential in Fairlie, Tekapo, and Twizel
- Rural Zone: High country farming and pastoral land
- Tourist Zone: Tourism-oriented development areas
- Mackenzie Basin Zone: Special zone protecting the unique landscape character
The Mackenzie Basin has special landscape protection provisions that limit subdivision and development to protect the iconic views and character of the high country.
Natural Hazards
Mackenzie's natural hazard profile reflects its alpine location:
- Earthquakes: The district sits in a seismically active area with several active fault lines.
- Snow and ice: Heavy snowfall, ice, and extreme cold are winter hazards that affect building design and access.
- Flooding: Glacial river flooding can affect valley areas. Lake level fluctuations from the hydroelectric scheme can impact nearby properties.
- Wind: Exposed high country is subject to strong nor'west winds.
Building Consent & Code Compliance
Building consent is processed by Mackenzie District Council. Standard processing targets 20 working days.
Building in the Mackenzie Basin requires careful design for the alpine climate — cold winters, heavy snow loading, strong winds, and seismic risk. Dark sky reserve requirements may affect exterior lighting. Water supply and wastewater are often on-site systems requiring specific design.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is property in Tekapo so expensive for a small town?
Tekapo property values have surged due to international tourism demand, dark sky reserve status, proximity to Aoraki/Mount Cook, and limited land supply in the basin. Short-term accommodation potential drives investor interest. The unique landscape appeal attracts lifestyle buyers willing to pay a premium. Council restrictions on development also limit supply.
What is the Mackenzie Basin landscape protection?
The Mackenzie Basin has special planning provisions to protect its unique tussock grassland landscape and visual character. These limit subdivision, restrict building colours and reflectivity, and manage the visual impact of development. If you're buying in the basin, understand these restrictions before purchasing, as they significantly affect what you can build.
Get the Full Picture on Any Property in Mackenzie
Shire analyses your LIM report and other documents so nothing gets missed.
No commitment required · Start free