New Zealanders have been given extra time to make submissions on the Government’s proposed Conservation Amendment Bill, with the Environment Committee extending the deadline to midday on Monday, 13 July.
The extension follows strong public interest in the bill, which proposes some of the most significant changes to New Zealand’s conservation laws in decades. Originally due to close on 2 July, the submission period has now been extended to allow more individuals, iwi, organisations and community groups to have their say.
The proposed legislation seeks to amend the Conservation Act 1987 and several other conservation laws. Among its key changes are proposals to enable more development on conservation land while maintaining conservation values, streamline concession processes, modernise management planning, introduce a single National Conservation Policy Statement, and clarify how conservation legislation gives effect to the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi.
The bill also includes provisions to modernise the way conservation land is managed, make it easier to allocate concession opportunities, provide for visitor amenity areas, and allow an international visitor access levy in some conservation areas.
The proposed reforms have generated significant debate across Aotearoa.
Supporters argue the changes will create a more efficient conservation system, reduce unnecessary bureaucracy and better support economic activity, tourism and recreation while continuing to protect important environmental values.
Critics, including several environmental organisations, have raised concerns that the reforms could weaken protections for conservation land, reduce public oversight and increase opportunities for commercial development in protected areas. Many groups are encouraging New Zealanders to participate in the select committee process before submissions close.
For Māori, the legislation has particular significance. The bill proposes changes to how conservation legislation gives effect to Treaty principles while retaining commitments made through Treaty settlements and recognising rights under the Marine and Coastal Area (Takutai Moana) Act. Many iwi and hapū are expected to examine closely how the proposed reforms could affect kaitiakitanga, co-governance arrangements and the long-term stewardship of whenua and taonga species.
The Environment Committee is encouraging anyone with an interest in conservation, recreation, biodiversity, tourism or Treaty issues to make a submission before the new deadline.
The committee will consider public feedback before reporting the bill back to Parliament later this year, where it will continue through the legislative process.
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