The public can now make submissions on a proposed new Conservation Park on Great Barrier Island, put forward by Auckland Central MP Nikki Kaye.
Conservation Minister Dr Nick Smith said the proposal would upgrade 12,100 hectares of stewardship land into a Conservation Park, making it the largest DOC Park in Auckland.
"The proposed park contains the largest area of forest in New Zealand that is free of possums and mustelids like stoats that pose such a high risk to our native birds.
"I encourage the public to read the discussion paper and ensure they have their say on the proposed boundaries, name and approach to the new park's management."
Submissions close on February 28. Copies of the discussion document can be downloaded here.
