Enhancing access through negotiation

New Zealanders are lucky to have a heritage of access to the outdoors. Not only do we have a historic network of public reserve land alongside some of our best rivers and much of the coast, but we also have a longstanding tradition whereby landholders generally grant permission to those who ask to cross their private land.

But despite this heritage and the best of intentions, disputes over access still arise. Over the past 12 months more than 50 access disputes have been lodged with the Commission, ranging from disputes over access on unformed legal roads to appeals for access across private land to desirable outdoor spots.

What's new on the Walking Access Mapping System?

Walking Access Mapping System users will see some major changes on the www.wams.org.nz website, including an upgrade to the map interface and a new-look landing page.

The art of dispute resolution

When disputes over access occur, the New Zealand Walking Access Commission is often people's first port of call. In this article, Commission Board Member Penny Mudford provides an overview of the Commission's dispute resolution work.

News from the field

‘News from the field’ provides a roundup of public access topics being worked on by the New Zealand Walking Access Commission’s regional field advisors. This month, we hear from John Gardiner (Northland) and Chris Tonkin (Nelson, Marlborough, West Coast and Kaikoura).

Helping hand for access projects

Work has begun on nine access-enhancing projects awarded funding through the 2013 round of the Enhanced Access Fund. Funding of $63,464 was awarded in this year’s funding round to support projects that enhance access in New Zealand's outdoors.

New walkways in the works

Keen walkers will soon be able to enjoy two new walkways providing access to scenic outdoor spots in the Marlborough Sounds and Canterbury. The walkways, to be known as the Waitaria Bay Walkway and Hurunui Walkway, utilise easements granted by landholders