29 June 2005

Public Access New Zealand Inc.

Government is to be commended for its decision to defer new access legislation until after the election. This is a mature, reasoned decision based on the need to reconsider and refine several proposals, according to outdoor recreation advocate, Public Access New Zealand.

PANZ spokesman, Bruce Mason, says that his organisation wishes to contribute to any further consultation with Government.

"The need for additional and improved and secure access remains. We are convinced it is possible to come up with proposals that would be acceptable to the big majority of concerned and interested parties, both in the public and private arenas".

The decision to not progress the most contentious parts of the proposals will allow all parties a very good chance to get it right.

PANZ believes that much could be achieved prior to the election, without the necessity for further legislation. "For instance there is a dearth public information about the location of public roads, the Queen's chain and other public reserves that could be easily satisfied," Mr Mason concluded.

ENDS

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