Council confirms 30-year licence for Upper Selwyn Huts

Selwyn District Council has confirmed a new 30-year licence term for licence holders at Upper Selwyn Huts, with a formal review scheduled at year 20 to consider future renewal. This decision provides residents with long-term certainty while ensuring the settlement is managed responsibly and sustainably.

The decision follows ongoing engagement with the Upper Selwyn Huts community which started early last year and included targeted engagement from August to December 2024 and five weeks of consultation in June and July 2025.

“While some huts and dwellings are still used on a temporary basis, others are now occupied as permanent residences. This shift has changed the nature of the community and their needs. Our recent decision provides a clearer licence term, moving away from annual and short-term rollovers, giving licence holders greater certainty and the ability to plan ahead” says Denise Kidd, Executive Director Community Services and Facilities.

Under the new licence arrangement:

• Licence holders will be granted a 30-year licence term, with a formal review at year 20. This review will include consultation with Upper Selwyn Huts’ licence holders to consider whether the licence should be extended at the end of the 30-year term.
• Environmental assessments will be undertaken every 10 years and shared publicly, to keep residents informed on any changes in the area.
• Building inspections will not be included as a licence condition. The Council will continue to carry out inspections in line with its role as a territorial authority, such as when complaints or safety concerns arise.
• No bond will be introduced, and no environmental triggers will automatically end a licence term.

A final deed of licence will be prepared following consultation on the 2026/27 Annual Plan, which will also confirm the updated licence fee.

“This is a significant step forward for the Upper Selwyn Huts community,” Kidd says. “We are committed to working alongside residents to ensure the area remains safe, sustainable, and well-managed for years to come.”