Conservation Minister Tama Potaka Photo: RNZ / Samuel Rillstone
The government says a section of Miramar Peninsula will finally become a public reserve, after first being promised to Wellingtonians in 2011.
In a statement on Wednesday, it said the reserve would be created on the northern tip of the peninsula - known as Watt's Peninsula and Mātai Moana - following the transfer of 72 hectares of land from Land Information NZ to the Department of Conservation.
Conservation Minister Tama Potaka said the prominent landmark has enormous historical and cultural significance.
He said a charitable trust would manage the reserve with trustees appointed by Wellington City Council, Taranaki Whānui, and DOC.
The city council and Taranaki Whānui, through the Port Nicholson Block Settlement Trust, would provide ongoing funding for its operation and maintenance, he said.
"The trust's role will be to protect, preserve, and promote the reserve as a place of ecological, historical, and cultural importance that all people can access and enjoy."
Land Information Minister Chris Penk said the public reserve was first promised by the government in 2011.
"There is strong public interest in safeguarding the whenua (land) and I thank everyone who has advocated for this outcome.
"The area is home to pā sites, wāhi tapu (sacred places) and military heritage sites built from the 1880s through to the Second World War, including Fort Ballance."
He said the decision would preserve the land for future generations.
An official opening date has not yet been confirmed.
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