Stewart Island/Rakiura National Park Management Plan Preparation and Conservation Management Strategy Review.


Summary of feedback Here

DOC gets good steer from public on management plan

Date: 19 April 2007
A wild cat, rat and possum free Stewart Island was one of the visions that has came through strongly in regard to the island’s future management following initial public input into the development of the first management plan for Rakiura National Park.
The Department of Conservation received more than 400 feedback forms providing comments and suggestions from organisations and individuals after a discussion document was released last September.
Senior planner Anke de Jong said the level of response has provided valuable insight into the values, experiences and connections people have with Stewart Island.
“The information given in the feedback forms has meant the department is no longer working from a blank piece of paper. The suggestions and comments received provide a good steer on the areas people feel passionate about.”
Responses came from a variety of interest groups, from island residents, to tourist operators and botanists. Hunting also featured strongly with a good number of responses coming from the hunting community, Ms de Jong said.
“Rakiura provides for a range of opportunities for a variety of users. It is known internationally for its flora and fauna. No one wants to see that compromised."
“The plan will give a clear direction as to how areas will be managed within Rakiura National Park whether this is for the protection of indigenous species or aircraft access.”
Ms de Jong said public involvement is crucial to helping shape a plan that will serve Rakiura and its users well.
Starting next month, the department is holding a number of workshops to go through some of these topics. All members of the public are welcome.

Hunters interested in updates on this issue can contact southlandbranchnzda@hotmail.com

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