Federated Mountain Clubs are alarmed that proposed changes could result in the Minister having the sole decision making power over conservation land.
They say a planned National Conservation Policy Statement will strip away democratic process and prioritise commercial interests, and take decision making out of the hands of statutory body, the New Zealand Conservation Authority, and the public.
The Mountain Clubs group describes the move as unprecedented and a fundamental shift in how New Zealand's public conservation land is managed.
The Department of Conservation has confirmed a proposal has gone out for `targeted' consultation before going to Cabinet and the government revealed a month ago it wanted to, in its words, " unleash economic growth on conservation land".
Kathryn talks to Allan Brent, a recent member of the FMC's Board.
If you have more on this story please contact Philippa.Tolley@rnz.co.nz
