Generation, Collection and Dissemination of Accurate and Clear Information Relating to Access
Many submitters consider that the bulk of problems surrounding access are related to a lack of information, clarity relating to public access to land, and the inefficient enforcement of existing regulations. There may be lack of information on the type and identification of access points. Public land is often unmarked and therefore unknown to the general public, who are unaware of existing access arrangements. Anglers, for example, are unaware of where they are entitled to fish as the river reserve (which is public land) may no longer correlate with the river because of movement of the water body.
Conflict arises when landowners adjacent to rivers believe that they own the riverside section, and thus deny access to and along the riverbed. Restrictions are reinforced with fencing, erected across rivers to control stock, without an obvious gate. Authorities seem "reluctant to utilise the esplanade provisions of the RMA or identify paper roads and ensure their availability" for the public. It is stated that there is a "lack of council power in negotiations", even to create separately fenced public walkways. Councils do not "want to increase their roading liability by establishing or legalising easements and customary routes".
Contact for Enquiries
Mark Neeson
Manager, Land and Water Policy
Pastoral House
25 The Terrace
PO Box 2526, Wellington
Phone: +64 894 0703
Fax: +64 4 894 0745
