Ric Cullinane outdoors

Hundreds give feedback on Walking Access Review

Last month the Ministry for Primary Industries finished seeking public feedback for its review of the Walking Access Act. We understand that hundreds of people and organisations shared their thoughts with MPI and the independent review panel - far more than we or MPI initially expected.

I want to take this opportunity to thank everyone who took time to give feedback. The people in New Zealand who care about and protect public access to the outdoors are a diverse crew. And yet we all care deeply about public access and the role in plays in health and wellbeing, environmental sustainability, community resilience and recreation and active transport.

It was also affirming to hear many people telling the review panel about the important work we do, and that we do this on the smell of an oily rag. More than once, as I sat at the back of public meetings or read people’s submissions, I heard the phrase “honest broker” pop up.  

What better measure of an organisation or individual than having the trust of others?

MPI will be sharing its draft report on the Review of the Walking Access Act with other departments within the next few weeks. The minister will then present it to Cabinet for its consideration.

I know that that we will be we ready and waiting to act quickly on any decisions when Cabinet makes them.

We will share the outcomes of the review with you as soon as they are public. In the meantime, thanks again for your support, engagement and encouragement during the review.

~ Ric Cullinane, Chief Executive