Proposed land classifications for West Coast stewardship land announced

Reclassification recommendations for stewardship land on the West Coast have been announced. The West Coast is the first region to go through this process, and recommendations include reclassifying approximately 77,000 hectares (12%) as National Park, 347,000 hectares (54%) as Conservation Park and 182,000 hectares (28%) as Historic Reserve.

FMC launched its ‘Forgotten Lands’ campaign in 2014, asking for the land status of stewardship land to be reviewed. Some of the land has no ecological merit while other parts are very dear to the hearts of trampers, kayakers and others, which FMC believes deserves the highest forms of protection.

The recommendations and Conservation Value Reports for each area can be found at www.doc.govt.nz/stewardship-land-documents. The recommendations have been made by independent panels, which were set up last year to reclassify stewardship land. FMC commends the Minister of Conservation, the Department of Conservation, and the panels for their intent and mahi.

Public notification will open on Monday 30 May and close on 23 August. The reports and recommendations are detailed and thorough, and FMC will be submitting on the recommendations.

FMC encourages anyone with an interest in these issues to consider submitting feedback. The more we can show that we are interested and have a stake in these issues, the more weight our collective voice carries. Read our  submissions resource on Wilderlife to learn why and see examples.

To find out more, visit www.beehive.govt.nz/release/public-feedback-sought-proposed-land-classifications-west-coast.

Photo at top: Morgan Gorge, Waitaha River. (c) Neil Silverwood