12 October 2005 Media Statement

Talk Environment draws record numbers

Interest in the Ministry for the Environment’s annual meetings with New Zealanders has almost doubled this year, confirming the environment is increasingly important to people.

The Ministry’s Talk Environment Roadshow visits 16 locations around New Zealand from October 10 to 27, to discuss the environmental issues of greatest interest to communities, business and local government.

Registrations have already reached 2300 topping last year’s total attendance of 1350. Auckland City’s public meeting is on Wednesday 19 October, and North Shore on Thursday 20 October.

“New Zealanders have a clear idea of what they expect and deserve from their environment. We look forward to hearing more from them about how we can keep working together to achieve that vision,” Ministry Chief Executive Barry Carbon said.

“The Ministry for the Environment is focused on being an environmental leader. We see the Roadshow as an opportunity to further our work in partnership with central and local government, communities and business.”

Key topics will include the latest changes to the Resource Management Act, progress on waste issues, and national environmental standards (including a proposed new national standard to improve the safety of human drinking water sources).

Feedback will be incorporated into the Ministry’s work, as with previous Roadshows. This is the third Talk Environment Roadshow the Ministry has held – with its popularity growing significantly every year.

Auckland City public meeting:
Wednesday 19 October, 7.45am to 9.30am
Venue: Auckland Town Hall, The Edge, 50 Mayoral Drive, Auckland

North Shore public meeting
Venue: North Harbour Stadium, Oteha Valley Road, Albany, North Shore
Public meeting:
Thursday 20 October, 7.45am to 9.30am

For more information or to register www.mfe.govt.nz/withyou/talkenvironment/ or phone 0800 TALKENV (0800 825 536).

ENDS

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