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.
Submission on the Health and Safety at Work Amendment Bill
Published March 2026
We support the clarification that the focus of the Health and Safety and Work Act is on work-related health and safety—not public health or public safety
Submission on the Planning Bill and the Natural Environment Bill
Published February 2026
Our submission to the Environment Committee supported the inclusion of public access in the Planning Bill and recommended that it be clearly embedded within the National Policy Direction.
Fast-track Approvals Amendment Bill
Published November 2025
Our submission notes that the Bill can be enhanced by including the ability of the panel to obtain comments from any entity with specialist knowledge on a relevant matter.
Waikato District Council early engagement on development of Reserves and Beaches Bylaw 2026
Published November 2025
We recommend that the Council carefully consider the potential impacts on public access, for people of all abilities, and for current and future users of beaches and reserves.
Southshore Erosion Protection
Published September 2025
Our submission encourages Christchurch City Council to consider practical public access to the estuary beside Southshore, where erosion protection is planned.
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.