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Published Wednesday 29 May 2019

New Zealanders are being invited to have their say on access to the outdoors that’s related to the Walking Access Act 2008. The Act aims to provide free and practical access to the outdoors for all sorts of activities, not just walking.

The review team is keen to hear from individuals, groups and organisations interested in a wide range of outdoor activities – everything from walking and riding to swimming and fishing, getting to sites special to Māori, outdoor education, and 4-wheel driving. It wants to hear from people already involved in outdoor activities and those wanting to get involved.

The Act, including the role of the Walking Access Commission it established, is being reviewed to see if changes are needed. The review aims to make sure the Act and the Commission are fit for the future.

The New Zealand Walking Access Commission is an independent body that leads and supports the negotiation, establishment, maintenance, and improvement of public access for enjoyment and recreation. The Commission works with private landowners, local government, the Department of Conservation, community groups and others to carry out this work. It also provides detailed information to help people find tracks and trails across the country and use them safely and respectfully.

The review team wants to know what you think about the Act and the New Zealand Walking Access Commission, which helps groups develop new trails, tracks or outdoor areas. What’s working well? What could be improved?

To find out more about the review and how to have your say, please go to:

https://www.mpi.govt.nz/law-and-policy/legislation/walkingaccessreview/

Please provide your feedback by 2 July.