The West Melton Reserves total approximately 2778 hectares and are located between the Christchurch International Airport and the NZ Army West Melton Range.

The lands are held in trust by Environment Canterbury “for the improvement of the waterway of the Waimakariri River and the protection of certain land in Canterbury”. Some of it functions as endowment for the earning of revenue for the purpose of carrying out works as authorised by the Waimakariri River Improvement Act 1922.

This plan is the outcome of the review of the Waimakariri Reserves – West Melton Resource Assessment and Management Plan completed in 1986 and covers the fixed term leased lands and the Canterbury Aero Club lease in perpetuity.

Aside from their primary functions, the lands play an important part in the protection of the Christchurch municipal water supply, rare remnant native species and soil conservation.

Currently, the reserves are leased predominantly for dryland sheep farming with limited cattle numbers and to a number of recreation clubs located along the Weedons Ross Road.

Consultation has closed on the Draft Management Plan.