PUBLIC ACCESS/ OUTDOOR RECREATION

The maintenance and enhancement of free public access to and along coastal marine areas, lakes and rivers, and the conservation estate, by the Queens Chain, legal roads and other means is a very important principle. Our parks, reserves, rivers, lakes and the coast must remain in public ownership and control, and not become dominated by commercial tourism. The public should be involved in the management of recreation on the conservation estate.

Political Parties should:
 

Maintain and enhance responsible free public foot access to and over the public conservation estate, coast and waterways, including the Queens Chain and legal roads. Retain in public ownership and control the land or waters administered by local or central Government, with predominant conservation or access values. Ensure adequate funding for a system of basic huts, tracks and other facilities, thus allowing New Zealanders to access and enjoy their publicly owned natural lands and waters. Curb the development of elaborate recreational facilities on public conservation land eg 40 bunk huts and great walk type tracks. Develop walkways and make provision for outdoor recreation in urban and rural areas.

For further information contact: Federated Mountain Clubs, Forest and Bird, ECO