A new Member’s Bill aims to give hunters and anglers representation on conservation matters.
ACT conservation spokesperson Cameron Luxton has introduced a Member’s Bill to the ballot that, if passed, would give hunters and anglers seats at the table with the Conservation Authority.
The New Zealand Conservation Authority has 13 members, with seats set aside for nominees from iwi, the Royal Society, Forest & Bird, and Federated Mountain Clubs. Historically there have been no places for hunters and anglers.
Chief executive of Fish & Game New Zealand Corina Jordan said hunters and anglers play an important role in conservation in New Zealand and it’s only fair they have a voice and a seat at the table.
Hunters and anglers acted as important guardians of New Zealand’s natural environment, contributing thousands of volunteer hours every year to protect our flora and fauna, Jordan said.
“Hunters and anglers bring practical on the ground experience in controlling pests and managing valued introduced species. They’re passionate about New Zealand’s unique wild places. It’s part of who they are as New Zealanders.”
Game Animal Council general manager Tim Gale said hunters are one of the largest users of public conservation land and any planning or policy decisions significantly impact hunter activity.
“If passed, this Bill will go a long way to continue to strengthen the collaborative links between hunting and conservation.”
The Bill would allow the minister of conservation to appoint two further members to the board – one appointed on recommendation of the New Zealand Deerstalker’s Association, and one appointed after consultation with both Fish & Game and the Game Animal Council.
