Foreword From The Minister Of Conservation
Conservation is a dominant theme in New Zealand. Public lands managed by the Department of Conservation - for recreation, nature protection and historic and cultural heritage - occupy one third of the country's total land area. Our Exclusive Economic Zone is 15 times our land area, the fourth largest in the world.
The many islands of New Zealand are home to highly unusual biota, among them numerous threatened species. Our coastline and surrounding waters are the seabird and marine mammal capital of the world. Our landscapes range from forests, lakes, rivers and wetlands to mountains, glaciers and alpine meadows, through which run a vast network of huts, tracks and other visitor facilities.
New Zealand will continue its world-leading role in conservation, both in the management of recreation on public conservation lands and the protection of native species. High public interest and participation in conservation throughout New Zealand confirm that the Department is following the correct path.
The Department's work with Land Information New Zealand has been delivering major progress in high country conservation. The vast tussock grassland ecosystems and landscapes of the eastern South Island are the last large tracts of public land to be separated into areas for conservation management and commercial use. These additions to the public conservation estate will lead to expanded recreation opportunities and a greater diversity of areas set aside for nature protection.
Historic heritage is a record of human impact on our country that carries important lessons for future generations and contributes to our identity as New Zealanders. As part of it historic heritage work, the Department is exploring new sites that can be considered as potential candidates for World Heritage status on natural and cultural heritage criteria.
Nature tourism and outdoor recreation based on access to public conservation lands are becoming economic mainstays for many rural communities. In response to increasing visitor numbers and demand for commercial concessions in conservation areas, much progress is being made to ensure the Department's huts, tracks and other recreation facilities are fit for purpose. As people take more advantage of recreation opportunities, the Department must ensure use of conservation resources doesn't compromise their protection and management.
Our natural heritage is the main driver for overseas tourism to New Zealand, which is the largest single contributor to the nation's economy. This heritage is also of enormous intrinsic value, and highly valued by New Zealanders. With the priorities set for the Department over the next three years, I am confident that the public conservation estate is in good hands.
In support of this work, the information in this Statement of Intent 2005-2008 is consistent with the policies and performance expectations of the Government.
Hon Chris Carter
Minister of Conservation
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