Have you ever seen a sign somewhere — probably on a hike — saying "QEII Covenant" and didn't know what it actually meant?
A QEII covenant, established by the Queen Elizabeth II National Trust, is a legal agreement between a landowner and the Trust to protect and preserve areas of natural and cultural heritage on private land in New Zealand. These covenants are voluntary and designed to safeguard significant ecological and historical sites, ensuring they are maintained for future generations.
Key Features of a QEII Covenant:
Permanence
Covenants are typically perpetual, binding not only the current landowner but also future owners to the terms of the agreement, ensuring long-term protection of the land.
Flexibility
Each covenant is tailored to suit the specific characteristics and needs of the property. This flexibility allows for various land management practices that promote conservation while accommodating the landowner's use of the property.
Support
The Trust provides ongoing support and guidance to covenantors, including assistance with pest and weed control, fencing, and ecological restoration projects.
Protection
These covenants help protect diverse ecosystems, habitats, and landscapes. They are crucial in conserving native flora and fauna, as well as historical and archaeological sites.
Additional Facts:
Biodiversity: QEII covenants often protect areas with significant biodiversity, including rare and endangered species.
Community Involvement: The covenants frequently involve local communities and volunteers in conservation efforts, fostering a collective sense of responsibility and stewardship.
Recognition: Landowners with QEII covenants receive plaques and signs to acknowledge their contribution to conservation, which is why you might see these signs on various hikes and nature walks.
Numbers: Since 1977, over 5,023 covenants have been registered, covering a diverse range of landscapes across New Zealand
More Info: If you want to learn more about the QEII idea, visit the QEII Website: qeiinationaltrust.org.nz
Island Hills Station is home to Canterbury's largest QEII covenant.
Here, visitors can enjoy guided walks, horse trekking, and hunting activities. The annual Skedaddle Trail Run is also held at Island Hills Station to support local community organizations and covenant management.
We offer several guided tour dates to see and experience the breathtaking mountain views, native bush and historic sites of the unique Island Hill Station Track through the Canterbury High Country. Don’t miss out, book your space now!
**More Info**
We offer several dates for our small group, women-only, guided Island Hills Station Track per season, each limited to max 10 participants - see our tour calendar for available options.
The unique 5-day hiking tour through the Canterbury High Country close to Christchurch offers many drawcards - stunning mountain views, native bush, historic gems, hot showers and your luggage will be transported for you.
This post is based on an article in our Sidetracks Women Newsletter. It offers a great way to stay in the loop about our tours, regularly receive interesting info and handy hints about hiking and cycling in NZ, as well as tour-related specials.
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