Services / Concessions

If you want to run a commercial activity in an area managed by the Department of Conservation, you need to apply for a concession. A concession gives you:

  • A legal right to carry out your proposed activity on lands managed by the Department;
  • A formal relationship between yourself and the Department so that both parties are aware of their obligations;
  • Security of tenure for the term of your concession provided that you comply with the conditions of your concession

Once you have a concession, you are called a concessionaire.

What exactly is a concession?

A concession is an official authorisation to operate in an area managed by the Department. It may be in the form of a lease, licence, permit or easement.

Concessions are required for:

  • Accommodation facilities
  • Water, air or land transport services
  • Commercial education or instruction activities
  • Guiding (including fishing, hunting, tramping, walking, climbing/ski tours, kayaking/canoeing)
  • Ski fields
  • Attractions such as bungy jumping
  • Services such as shops, tearooms, restaurants, garages, or hire services.
  • Grazing, baches, telecommunication facilities, sphagnum gathering, filming, beehives, and some extractive purposes

Different forms of authorisation are required for tourism activities involving marine mammals, to hunt wild animals for commercial gain, and to undertake development activities. We can advise you on what type of concession you will require for your business or activity.

Download a copy of the “Introductions to Concessions” PDF factsheet.

What will the Department of Conservation charge?

Concessionaires are required to pay concession fees for the privilege of obtaining commercial or other benefits from public land. These fees will be the result of negotiations and may be charged as;

  • A percentage of the gross revenue
  • A per hectare
  • Per head or per trip charge
  • A fixed fee
  • Or a combination of these depending on the activity and the market rates

How do I make an application?

The Department of Conservation is divided into 13 regions called conservancies. The application will be dealt with by the conservancy where the application is to take place. Where activities will occur in more than one conservancy, a lead conservancy will be appointed to co-ordinate the application.

All applications must be made on the Department of Conservation forms and must be accompanied by an Assessment of Environmental Effects. There may also be a requirement to provide a safety plan for your proposed activity.

We can provide advice on concessions and assist you with the process of obtaining a concession.