Source: Fish and Game NZ
A significant milestone in protecting public access to New Zealand’s outdoors was celebrated on Wednesday.
Minister for Hunting and Fishing, Hon James Meager, joined project partners for the opening of a newly created public access point to the internationally renowned Whakapapa River.
Through the purchase of the riverfront property, Auckland/Waikato Fish and Game has secured permanent public access by establishing legal easements and esplanade strips. What was once inaccessible is now protected in perpetuity, ensuring New Zealanders can enjoy the river for fishing, swimming, kayaking, tramping and other outdoor recreation for generations to come.
The opening ceremony brought together representatives from Ngāti Hāua, the Outdoor Access Commission, the Department of Conservation, neighbouring Fish and Game Councils, local community members, and project partners who have helped make the project a reality.
Guests were welcomed onto the property by representatives of Ngāti Hāua, who provided a moving whakatau acknowledging the significance of the whenua and the awa, and the importance of protecting and caring for these taonga for future generations. The welcome set the tone for a day centred on partnership, shared stewardship and a commitment to ensuring people can continue to connect with this special place.
Minister for Hunting and Fishing, James Meager acknowledged the outstanding work Auckland/Waikato Fish and Game had done to make the project possible.
“As Minister, these are the exact sorts of projects I encourage and want to see more of. Access to our rivers and outdoor areas is part of who we are as New Zealanders, and projects like this help ensure those opportunities are protected not just for today, but for the future.
“I believe this initiative provides a model that could be replicated across New Zealand.”
Auckland Waikato Fish and Game Chief Executive David Klee said the project represented an innovative approach to securing permanent public access.
“Public access is one of New Zealand’s greatest outdoor traditions, but it cannot be taken for granted. Opportunities to secure access are becoming increasingly rare as properties change ownership and long-standing access arrangements disappear.”
“Recognising the significance of this property, Auckland Waikato Fish and Game purchased the land through its Angler Access Fund with the specific purpose of securing permanent legal public access to the Whakapapa River. Once the easements and esplanade strips had been established, the balance of the property could be sold, allowing the investment to be recycled into securing the next access opportunity.”
“The Stone Jug Road project was delivered at no cost to Fish and Game licence holders. The property was purchased using externally sourced revenue and donations secured through the Auckland Waikato Fish and Game Angler Access Fund, demonstrating how partnerships and innovative funding can create lasting public benefits without drawing on licence revenue.”
Mr Klee said the innovative funding model ensured that every dollar invested had the potential to create multiple permanent public-access opportunities over time.
“This is about creating a legacy. Rather than simply purchasing land, we are investing in permanent legal access that will remain in place forever, regardless of who owns the surrounding property in the future.”
He said the project’s success reflected the willingness of many organisations to work together towards a common goal.
“We are incredibly grateful for the support and collaboration of Ngāti Hāua, the Outdoor Access Commission for their funding and technical support, the Ruapehu District Council, neighbouring Fish and Game Councils, and everyone else who contributed to bringing this project to fruition.
Chief executive of the Outdoor Access Commission, Dan Wildy, said, “We want to thank Auckland/Waikato Fish and Game for what they’ve achieved here. This is a lasting contribution to public access – and it’s not just anglers who’ll benefit, but anyone wanting to experience the Whakapapa River.
“This isn’t just about access here at Stone Jug Road – it’s proof of what’s achievable elsewhere. People around the country can look at this and see a real, workable model for getting similar results.”
Mr Klee echoed those sentiments, noting that the Stone Jug Road project demonstrated the potential for a national contestable public access fund to help secure strategically important access opportunities across New Zealand.
“Strategic opportunities to secure permanent public access often arise with very little notice. Having a dedicated national contestable fund would allow organisations to move quickly to secure these opportunities before they are lost forever.”
“Stone Jug Road is proof that this model works. A relatively modest investment has secured permanent public access to one of New Zealand’s iconic rivers, creating a legacy that will benefit generations of New Zealanders. There is enormous potential to replicate this approach throughout the country.”