New public toilets at Snow Farm improve year-round access

Community feedback has helped deliver new public toilets at Snow Farm, with facilities now open at Waiorau Recreation Reserve.

More than 100 submissions through Queenstown Lakes District Council's Long Term Plan highlighted the need for accessible toilets in this popular alpine area. In response, Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) contributed $60,000 to the project, with toilet facilities installed in March 2026, beside the main reserve carpark.

“These new facilities make a real difference for everyone using the reserve throughout the year,” says Pisa Alpine Charitable Trust Chair Pete Soundy.

“It’s a great example of what can be achieved when community feedback, funding partners, and local knowledge come together to improve access to this unique alpine environment.”

Located beside the main reserve carpark, the alpine-ready units are built for remote environments and are accessible year-round, supporting visitors heading up for cross-country skiing, walking, or simply enjoying the landscape.

The project includes two double “Alpine” model toilets from Westland Fibreglass’s Norski range, commonly used at Department of Conservation huts and remote campsites across Aotearoa New Zealand. Pisa Alpine Charitable Trust has also installed similar toilets at Bob Lee and Musterers Huts at Snow Farm.

Each unit is designed to operate in challenging alpine conditions, with underground storage chambers and ventilation systems to help minimise odour and support composting during the warmer months. Sawdust or woodchips are also used in summer, consistent with other backcountry facilities.

The location was carefully chosen to balance accessibility and resilience, close to the main reserve carpark for ease of use, while also sheltered from the high winds common at Snow Farm’s 1,500m altitude.

Alongside the toilets, a dedicated water supply from Meg Stream has also been installed to support visitors. Treated drinking water is available in winter when the generator is operating, while untreated water is available for general use during summer.

The project was a collaborative effort, with funding support from Central Lakes Trust and Otago Community Trust, alongside significant contributions from Snow Farm staff and volunteers to bring the project to life.

QLDC has also committed to supporting the ongoing upkeep of the facilities, contributing $2,500 per year for the next five years through a funding agreement to help ensure they remain well-maintained and fit for purpose.

The Waiorau Recreation Reserve is a 296-hectare alpine reserve owned by QLDC and managed by the Pisa Alpine Charitable Trust, which led the purchase of the land and continues to manage the operation and development of the reserve for community use.

This project reflects the value of community feedback in shaping how we invest in our public spaces, turning local input into real improvements that make it easier for everyone to enjoy this unique alpine environment.

Learn more about the wider area through the Department of Conservation’s Pisa Conservation Area page: Explore the Pisa Conservation Area