Forest & Bird says the Government’s proposed resource management reforms risk taking New Zealand down a path that further weakens protections for the environment, from mountains to sea and urban green spaces in between.
Acting General Counsel May Downing says communities will bear unnecessary costs when they choose to protect nature under the proposed Natural Environment Bill and Planning Bill.
“New Zealanders want planning laws that protect our unique nature, rather than laws that penalise communities trying to safeguard kākā and kererū habitats for future generations,” Ms Downing says.
“These reforms will shape New Zealand for decades to come. We have a choice between a path that protects nature and one that erodes environmental safeguards that support our wellbeing and economy.”
Forest & Bird is particularly concerned about the impact of the reforms on biodiversity, freshwater, and environmental limits.
“Our native plants and animals are found nowhere else, yet the proposed reforms remove the requirement to identify and protect Significant Natural Areas,” says Ms Downing. “Urban tree protections seem to be entirely absent.”
The organisation is also concerned the reforms fail to establish strong environmental limits.
“The reforms do not include any freshwater limits, but healthy freshwater is vital for communities and wildlife.
“Environmental limits are the bottom lines that nature needs to survive. If those limits can be weakened or exceeded, they stop doing the job they’re intended to do.”
Ms Downing says New Zealanders should not have to choose between a healthy environment and prosperous communities.
“We can build the homes, infrastructure, and economy we need while still protecting the rivers, wetlands, landscapes, and wildlife that make this country special.
“The question is which path politicians want to take the country down.”
Forest & Bird has released a short guide outlining key concerns with the proposed reforms and opportunities to improve them.