New Zealanders passionate about outdoors, survey finds

Do New Zealanders care about access to the outdoors? Do we regularly get out and about for recreation? The answer to both is a resounding yes, according to the findings of the Walking Access Survey 2015.

The survey, conducted for the Commission by Colmar Brunton, asked 1,150 New Zealanders about their views on outdoor access topics, participation in outdoor activities and understanding of responsible behaviour in the outdoors.

Applications welcome for Enhanced Access Fund

Groups undertaking projects to enhance access to the outdoors are encouraged to apply for funding through the New Zealand Walking Access Commission’s Enhanced Access Fund.

Outdoor achievers sought for Walking Access Awards

People and organisations that have improved New Zealanders access to the outdoors may be eligible for an award in this year’s Walking Access Awards.

The Commission's focus for the year

In this column, NZWAC chief executive Mark Neeson explains how the Commission's strategic plan will be implemented in the coming year, including background on project results and changes to the regional field advisor network.

Sometimes, no news is good news

In this column, NZWAC board member Maggie Bayfield explains how quietly getting on with the job without much fanfare is sometimes the best approach when facilitating resolutions to access disputes.

Canterbury walkway secured for future generations

The southern section of the Rakaia Gorge walking trail has been officially declared a walkway under the Walking Access Act 2008 to secure access for future generations.

Commission to develop new-look website

The Commission has launched a project to redesign its corporate website. Chief executive Mark Neeson said the project will make it easier for visitors to find what they are looking for and allow the Commission to present bolder, more engaging images.

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 Nicola Henderson (Hawke’s Bay, Wairarapa and Gisborne) and Chris Tonkin (Marlborough, Tasman, West Coast and Kaikoura).