image of stars in a purple sky looking across a river to the mountains in the high country

Work has begun to investigate setting up the country’s newest dark sky place in Selwyn.

The Council is exploring the cost and timeframe for dark sky accreditation in the Arthur's Pass and Castle Hill areas. Dark sky areas have become increasingly popular tourist attractions and could give the district’s growing tourism sector another drawcard. It could also work with other dark sky accredited areas in the South Island to create a regional experience.

Exploring the Dark Sky accreditation is an action that was agreed as part of the Council’s Kai Aku Rika Economic Development Strategy, which was adopted in November. The strategy was confirmed through the Long-Term Plan with 62% of people supporting the Council playing a more active role in the district’s economy, including submissions from across the community supporting dark sky initiatives for the high country.

The Kai Aku Rika Economic Development Strategy was developed together with over 250 local businesses leaders who shared their valuable insights and vision on how the Council and businesses can work together to build a resilient future-fit Selwyn to grow the local economy and increase the prosperity and economic wellbeing of residents and businesses.

Business Canterbury Chief Executive Leann Watson said the strategy is “an excellent piece of work that will play a strong part in shaping future thinking for the district. As one of New Zealand's fastest-growing districts, Selwyn plays a crucial role in driving Canterbury's economy. Selwyn’s bold vision and forward-thinking strategy lays the groundwork for sustainable growth and innovation.”

Work on other key areas of the strategy is also underway, including to develop an Energy Plan in partnership with Lincoln University and Orion Group investigating renewable energy opportunities.

Orion GM of Energy Futures Sam Elder says the strategy’s focus on a collaborative approach would become a benchmark for innovation and a driver for economic growth.

“We look forward to partnering in the development of the Selwyn Energy Plan catalyst project, and ongoing engagement and support for the broader Strategy implementation and evolution.”

The Council has also formalised relationship agreements with Lincoln University and KiwiRail. It has established an Economic Development Special Priority Subcommittee, which first met in November, to promote sustainable growth in Selwyn and guide its role in the Economic Development Strategy. A cross-sector steering group of diverse business stakeholders will also be formed to drive strategy actions.

Further local business events will be coming in the next few months, alongside the Selwyn Business Survey, which aims to capture insights from the business community and identify future challenges and opportunities.

Last modified: 10 Feb 2025 9:20am