Submissions
As part of our advocacy role, Herenga ā Nuku submits on a wide range of issues, including responding to parliamentary select committees, central government agencies and local government strategies and plans.
Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga Draft Reserves Management Plan
Published August 2025
Our submission lists five reserves where we asked whether public access could be more clearly defined. We also suggested adding any public access routes to WAMS.
Further comment to DOC on proposed car park pricing
Published August 2025
Herenga ā Nuku is concerned that charging for access at Punakaiki, Franz Josef and White Horse Hill is effectively charging for access to those areas.
The Going for Housing Growth programme
Published August 2025
Submission to the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development and the Ministry of Environment on the Going for Housing Growth proposals.
South Wairarapa District Council proposed by-law on Cape Palliser Unformed Legal Road
Published August 2025
Submission opposing South Wairarapa District Council’s proposed new bylaw that would restrict public access on an unformed legal road that passes around Cape Palliser.
Submission on Overseas Investment (National Interest Test and Other Matters) Amendment Bill
Published July 2025
The submission proposes additions to the Amendment Bill to improve public access for hunters, anglers, and other outdoor recreationists.
Waitākere Ranges Heritage Area Deed of Acknowledgement
Published April 2025
The submission supports a joint committee of Council as a way to agree and progress an overarching long-term strategic plan for the
Heritage Area.
Department of Conservation modernising conservation land management
Published February 2025
This submission recommends a ‘net benefit’ test for any changes made in land management that would require a demonstration of a net benefit to public access.
Department of Conservation exploring charging for access to some public conservation land
Published February 2025
Our submission opposes charging New Zealand residents for access to any public conservation areas, including national parks.
Long-term Insights Briefing: Pathways to resilience: Future-proofing Crown land stewardship
Published October 2024
The submission argues that the management authority for all currently undetermined Crown land be identified and that public access to Crown land be recognised as a legal right by default.
Submission on New Zealand’s work health and safety regulatory system
Published October 2024
Health and safety legislation should clearly state Worksafe's position by excluding liability for land managers who allow recreational access.