Forest & Bird is warning that proposed changes to conservation law could open the door to the largest loss of public conservation land in decades, sparking fears over environmental protection, public access and the future of biodiversity in Aotearoa.
Richard Capie, Group Manager of Conservation Policy and Advocacy at Forest & Bird, says the Government’s proposed Conservation Act Land Management Bill would significantly expand powers allowing conservation land to be exchanged, disposed of or reclassified.
Environmental groups fear the changes could weaken longstanding protections designed to safeguard native ecosystems and public ownership of conservation areas.
Capie says one of the major concerns is the scale of ministerial discretion proposed under the Bill, with critics arguing it would reduce independent oversight and limit opportunities for public scrutiny around decisions affecting public land.
Forest & Bird believes concentrating decision-making powers within government ministries risks undermining transparency and could lead to environmental outcomes being driven more by development interests than conservation priorities.
Concerns are also growing about what the legislation could mean for future generations and their ability to access and enjoy protected landscapes, forests and natural spaces.
Public conservation land has long been viewed as a cornerstone of New Zealand’s environmental identity, providing recreational opportunities while protecting native wildlife and ecosystems.
Capie says the proposed reforms appear to fit within a broader pattern of recent policy changes that environmental advocates say are weakening nature protections in favour of economic development and infrastructure expansion.
Recent debates over fast-track consenting processes, freshwater regulation and biodiversity protections have intensified concerns among conservation groups about the future direction of environmental policy under the current Government.
Forest & Bird is calling for stronger safeguards, greater public consultation and more transparent decision-making processes to ensure conservation land remains protected for future generations.
The Government says the proposed reforms are intended to improve flexibility and efficiency in land management decisions while balancing environmental and economic priorities.
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