Conservation Act Amendment Submission – Parliamentary Commissioner For The Environment

Few issues inspire as much public interest as the future of New Zealand’s conservation estate. From restoration volunteers and recreation groups to scientists, hunters, land managers and local business owners – New Zealanders care deeply about how public conservation land is managed.

Submissions closed yesterday on the Conservation Amendment Bill. This proposed legislation has generated significant discussion because it touches on a fundamental question: how do we prioritise the protection of nature with recreation, tourism and other economic activities on conservation land?

The Commissioner’s submission recognises the need to modernise conservation planning and improve the efficiency of decision-making. At the same time, it argues that any reforms must remain firmly grounded in the purpose of conservation – protecting and preserving the natural and historic resources that New Zealanders value.

The submission highlights several issues: the future role of public participation in conservation planning, the influence of local knowledge and conservation boards, how new development opportunities would be managed, and whether adequate environmental information exists to support important decisions about conservation land.

Conservation in New Zealand has depended on the commitment of community groups, iwi, volunteers, researchers and individuals who have spent countless hours – across decades – protecting biodiversity, restoring habitats and caring for special places. The submission notes that maintaining public trust and confidence in conservation decision-making is critical.

The Commissioner is clear about the priority that new legislation must give for long term environmental outcomes: “I am perfectly willing to accept increased development and use of the conservation estate, but only if it is consistent with the purpose of conservation.”