NZ conservation reform sparks opposition

The New Zealand government's proposed Conservation Amendment Bill has faced fierce opposition from environmental organisations and the outdoor recreation sector, leading Minister for Conservation Tama Potaka to remove a clause that would have allowed more conservation land to be sold. However, the bill still includes a new 'economic opportunity' function for the Department of Conservation (DOC), requiring it to enable development of land and resources to the greatest extent practicable. The reforms would also relegate the New Zealand — Department of Conservation (New Zealand) and regional conservation boards to advisory bodies and give the minister broad powers. Critics argue the changes infringe on Treaty of Waitangi rights and undermine conservation values, while the government says modernisation is needed. The bill adds to a pattern of environmental deregulation, including the disestablishment of the Ministry for the Environment and plans to reform the Resource Management Act.