New Zealand Recreation Association applauds new conservation moves by Government

The New Zealand Recreation Association (NZRA) has praised the appointment of Eugenie Sage as both Minister of Conservation and Minister of Land Information New Zealand.

NZRA Chief Executive Andrew Leslie says that both ministries influence recreation in New Zealand, particularly recreational access to the South Island's High Country.

Leslie commented "an area of concern amongst our members and stakeholders is the extent to which access to Public Conservation Land, specifically in the South Island High Country, has been denied for recreational use by tenure review and overseas investment office processes.

“Both processes are managed by LINZ (Land Information New Zealand) who draw upon DoC (Department of Conservation) guidance in each case.

"Having a single Minister responsible for both entities presents a fantastic opportunity to un-pick some really sticky issues.”

In 2016, NZRA wrote to the Chief Executive of LINZ and every Conservation Board in the South Island expressing concern on behalf of their members. They suggested some minor changes to the process, including greater consultation with the Walking Access Commission.

Leslie stated "we look forward to working with the new Minister on this issue."

Leslie also took the opportunity to congratulate Minister Sage on her appointment, adding "as a former employee of Forest & Bird and a former Regional Councillor, Ms Sage is well placed to take on these demanding and complex Ministries. We wish her all the best.”

The NZRA has also given its support for an increase in conservation spending, as outlined in the agreement that created New Zealand's new coalition government.

Leslie says the recreation industry, active New Zealanders and tourists deserve a better funded DoC, adding "the Department of Conservation manages one third on New Zealand’s land mass and by its own legislation is required to promote and encourage recreation. More than half of all New Zealanders visit Public Conservation Land at least annually.

“In recent years, the amount of land under DoC management has increased due to Tenure Review, the population of New Zealand has grown and there has been an explosion in international visitor numbers. Despite these factors, the funding for the management of recreational opportunities has remained static or declined”.

NZRA wishes to see increased DoC funding applied to recreational infrastructure that is used by both locals and tourists.

Leslie concluded "walking and cycling are New Zealand’s most popular forms of recreation. Expenditure on recreational infrastructure such as walking trails and cycleways is not just a coping mechanism for the tourism boom. It also enhances the lives of New Zealanders by way of the numerous social, economic and health benefits of outdoor recreation."

Images: South Island High Country (below) and Andrew Leslie (below).

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