In a major new move, DOC is proposing a mass closure of high-maintenance, high-risk and low-visitor tracks in kauri growing regions, including Northland.
The Department of Conservation (DOC) wants submissions on a proposal to close 34 tracks. Members of the public and interest groups have less than a month to have their say.
The decision to introduce a tougher regime would not be taken lightly, DOC said when the plan was revealed. It has been in talks with iwi and other stakeholders, including national recreational bodies, on the proposed closures.
"As there is currently no proven cure or treatment for kauri dieback, we can only save kauri by stopping the disease from spreading,'' Northern director of operations Sue Reed-Thomas said.
Track closures needed to be considered as the best and most affordable safeguard.