Changes At Mt John

Star gazers and observers will need to pay a small road user charger to visit University of Canterbury’s Mt John Observatory at Lake Tekapo as of today.

Due to the increased popularity of Earth & Sky’s tourism experience, a $5 road user charge is being introduced from Monday 30 November 2015. The charges apply to all vehicles types. No towing vehicles or long vehicles/coaches (of more than 23 seats) are permitted on the road.

Margaret Munro, General Manager of Earth & Sky, says that the increasing numbers of day-time visitors to Mt John has added significant pressures on the condition of the private road, in order to maintain it they needed to charge a modest user fee.

Earth & Sky operate day-time and night tours at two locations in Lake Tekapo. They offer astrophotography tours and run the Astro Café at the summit of Mt John.

“Allied to this increase in vehicles, there’s pressure on parking during the summer so introducing a fee and improving signage and traffic management systems means access will be more controlled, safer and ultimately a better visitor experience,” she said. “We’re the guardians of a special alpine environment that needs to be protected from the effect of visitors walking, driving or parking where they shouldn’t.”

Costs have escalated annually for upkeep of the private road. Similar to servicing a ski field access road, the Mt John road needs snow removing equipment and graders to keep the road open at different times.

The fee does not apply to; those participating in an Earth and Sky tour, Tekapo residents, Earth and Sky employees, scientists, researchers and employees at the scientific research facility, Department of Conservation staff and University of Canterbury staff and students. An exemption sticker must be applied for and displayed on vehicles.

Those applying for a waiver can register for a free ‘Friend of Earth & Sky’ vehicle sticker which will exempt their vehicle from the road user fee. To register visit the Earth & Sky office, Main Street, Lake Tekapo, or apply at the gate at the Mt John access road, with proof of address or employment.