Fish and Game New Zealand has welcomed a new charter to improve access to public conservation land for fishing and hunting.

Hunting and Fishing Minister Todd McClay launched the charter at the Sika Show at Mystery Creek in Hamilton.

It establishes guiding principles for the Department of Conservation (DoC) to provide clear and transparent decisions on public conservation land access that make it easier for Kiwis to go hunting and fishing, supported by Fish and Game.

“The ability to get out in nature and catch a fish or hunt a duck for the table is part of a way of life for many New Zealanders, but constraints on access have made that challenging,” Fish and Game chief executive Corina Jordan said.

Access is the No 1 issue for our anglers and hunters and we are proud to be able to be involved in supporting this work, Jordan said.

“We are working with our hunting sector leaders, DoC, Herenga ā Nuku, Land Information NZ, and others to make it easier and clearer for people to know where they can go and how to go about it.”

Fish and Game maintains more than 3000 access points nationwide for anglers and game bird hunters.

Jordan said it had maintained those for more than 30 years and works with public and private landowners to ensure people can access and enjoy this resource.

“We are working to support mobility-impaired people in being able to fish and hunt. We have created a wheelchair maimai, collaborated on fishing platforms, and have maps to show good spots they can use.”

Every year, 1.2 million people hunt and fish recreationally.

McClay said the charter guarantees a common and consistent approach to access across all regions.

“The charter is the first of its kind and a significant step towards preserving New Zealand’s hunting and fishing heritage while safeguarding the experience for generations of Kiwis.”

It is a groundbreaking initiative that significantly contributes to preserving New Zealand’s hunting and fishing heritage, ensuring a quality experience for future generations of Kiwis, McClay said.

“As Minister for Hunting and Fishing, I want to make sure every New Zealander who wants to get out and enjoy themselves, feed their families or help manage game animal populations can do so easily,” he said.