The search for a new operator to manage commercial farming at New Zealand's largest farm has moved a step closer, with applications officially closed.
Stacey Wrenn, Department of Conservation South Marlborough Operations Manager, confirmed there were five applications to run the commercial farming at Molesworth Recreation Reserve.
"We're really pleased with the response we've had here. Given the scale of the reserve and the specialised type of farming, we think this is a good level of interest," Wrenn said.
"We appreciate the effort that has gone into preparing the applications."
At 180,787 hectares, Molesworth is slightly larger than Rakiura/Stewart Island and bigger than 10 of New Zealand’s national parks.
The Marlborough land held cultural importance for iwi including Ngāi Tahu, Ngāti Kurī, Te Rūnanga o Toa Rangatira and Rangitāne o Wairau, and was valued for its biodiversity and public recreation.
Applications would be assessed against a set of criteria, including farming capability, environmental protection, and how cultural values would be upheld. Public access to the reserve would also be a key consideration.
Wrenn said the department expected the preferred operator to be selected by the end of May. That operator would then need to apply for a concession, which wouldbe publicly notified to allow for submissions.
The current leaseholder, state-owned farmer Pāmu Farms of New Zealand, would continue operating the property until its lease expired on June 30, 2026.
“As the incumbent, Pāmu continues to engage closely with the Department of Conservation regarding the future of the Molesworth lease, and we’re committed to working constructively through their process,” a spokesperson said.
The Department of Conservation said it was working with Pāmu to ensure farming operations continued smoothly during the change over.
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