Eric Roy MP
National Party Outdoor Recreation Spokesman
18 July 2008
National to enhance protection of NZers' birthright
National's Outdoor Recreation policy will ensure that current and future generations will continue to enjoy the great
outdoors, while the safeguarding of New Zealand's unique biodiversity remains a priority.
The party's Outdoor Recreation spokesman, Eric Roy, says New Zealanders share a unique birthright over their country's
wild and beautiful outdoor areas, and National will make sure that birthright is protected for all New Zealanders.
"We will do this by improving access to the outdoors for all Kiwi families and preserving the rights of recreational
hunters and fishers while maintaining important conservation values."
Mr Roy says National's plan includes:
* Changing the focus of Conservation Boards and renaming them Conservation & Recreation Boards. The conservation estate will continue to be well-maintained while its recreational use is
encouraged. * Ensuring that public access is achieved through negotiated agreements between landowners and local
Conservation & Recreation Boards. * Creating new, affordable, campsites for New Zealand families where there is demand. Sites will
be decided through consultation with local communities and tourism operators. * Protecting the rights of recreational
fishers by encouraging local management of local fisheries, and giving Fish & Game the option to charge a differential licence fee for foreign anglers. * Giving hunters management roles over
specific areas of conservation land to ensure they are recognised as important stakeholders in the outdoor environment.
"New Zealand's great outdoors is unsurpassed in the world, and National believes that all Kiwis deserve the opportunity
to take advantage of our enviable natural environment.
"We are committed to opening up access to these special areas while safeguarding the essential conservation values which
make our great outdoors so unique."
ENDS