Glenorchy wildlife photographer Dean Fitzpatrick plans to take tourists on guided walks on Lake Wakatipu's largest island.
Fitzpatrick's company, Mountain Beech NZ, co-owned with Albert Town's John Burke, has applied to the Queenstown Lakes District Council for a licence for an eco-tourism operation using Pigeon Island, which is a scenic reserve.
Mr Fitzpatrick co-owns Wildlight Safaris, which runs African photographic tours and safaris.
His latest proposal was publicly notified in February and no submissions were received.
Mountain Beech NZ wants to take clients to the island by boat from a commercial jetty at Blanket Bay.
A report to Thursday's full council meeting, written by contractor property manager Dan Cruickshank, recommended the council grant the licence, subject to conditions. Suggested licence conditions included limiting groups to less than six people, for a maximum of two trips a month.
There is one other commercial operator using the island - guided walk and kayaking company Rippled Earth, which had its licence approved in August 2013.
Mr Cruickshank said allowing a second commercial operation on the island would enable more members of the public to enjoy the reserve, while maintaining and protecting its scenic features.
The Wakatipu Reforestation Trust - which, with the Department of Conservation, has eradicated pests from Pigeon Island - provided a supportive letter.
Every year native trees and bushes are planted on the island to replace those razed by fires over the past decade.
If Mountain Beech is licensed, native trees and shrubs will be planted on each trip, as directed by the trust.
Rent for the five-year licence, if approved, will be set at $500 plus GST per year, or 7.5% of gross revenue, whichever is greater.
