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Queenstown Lakes District Council has advised that a new lookout which opened yesterday at Bennetts Bluff will make it safer for locals and visitors to enjoy the impressive views of Lake Whakatipu.

The famous Bennetts Bluff stretches up Lake Wakatipu towards Glenorchy’s Dart and Rees rivers, as spectacular mountains tower above the South Island landscape.

Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) worked closely with Department of Conservation Te Papa Atawhai (DOC) to complete the project.

Council invested $1.6million to develop a new carpark, toilet block and picnic area and planting, while DOC has funded the walking track and viewing area.

For many years, drivers have been pulling over on the side of the road at Bennetts Bluff to take in the view on the Glenorchy-Queenstown Road.

QLDC’s General Manager Property and Infrastructure Pete Hansby said the new location was much safer noting “at the old unofficial spot drivers pulled over on a blind corner with a rock fall hazard. We know the local community has been worried about this section of road and the potential for accidents. This new spot is better sign-posted, has multiple carparks for coaches, campers and cars, and is a designated safe place to pull over.”

As part of the design, Council is reintroducing 4,000 native plants to the area and is also working with the Glenorchy Community Association to develop an information board about the history of the Glenorchy-Queenstown Road.

Kāi Tahu kaumātua bestowed a site blessing last year and will continue to support with the development of cultural and historical signage at the lookout over time.

A barrier has been installed on the unsafe section of road to ensure it is no longer possible to pull over.  In Spring, grass seeding will be laid in the picnic area.

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