The Queenstown Lakes District Council presented an updated long-term trail plan for Mt Iron, aiming to manage and guide future trail development on the existing informal network of paths. While the plan seeks to balance environmental sensitivity with recreational use, community board members remain divided. Some, like deputy chair Kathy Dedo, expressed concern that the plan feels overwhelming to residents and noted limited community interest in horse riding on the trails, reflecting a cautious approach to changes.

Conversely, others, including chairman Simon Telfer and Cr Niki Gladding, emphasized the benefits of thoughtfully designed trails that accommodate diverse users while preserving the environment. They highlighted that the new trails would be built with care and could enhance recreational opportunities for a broad range of people, including potentially designated horse trails. The discussion underscores ongoing tensions between preserving community sentiment and advancing recreational infrastructure on Mt Iron.