Kia Ora, Welcome
Recreational access to our lakes, beaches, rivers, and mountains is an important part of what it is to be a New Zealander. The New Zealand Walking Access Commission is the Crown entity that works to enhance free, certain, enduring, and practical walking access to the outdoors for New Zealanders and overseas visitors. The Commission has a small team in Wellington and a network of regional field advisors. A copy of our legislation, the Walking Access Act 2008, is available here.
EAF applications welcome
2 February 2012: Organisations and individuals undertaking projects to enhance access to the outdoors can now apply for funding through the 2012 round of the New Zealand Walking Access Commission’s Enhanced Access Fund. Read more.
Responsible access urged
22 December 2011: The New Zealand Walking Access Commission urges Kiwis to respect other people’s property and the environment when accessing the outdoors this holiday season. Read the Commission's top tips.
More >>Te Araroa is open
5 December: A 3,000km trail from Cape Reinga to the Bluff was opened at a public event in Wellington on 3 December. Te Araroa – which means The Long Pathway – links New Zealand’s most spiritual, historic and scenic locations, opening up an epic hike through some of the world’s most spectacular scenery. Read more.