Hearing Commissioner Denis Nugent's report & findings into the proposed Oreti Cycle Way is a triumph of commonsense. The plan was for a renowned and very popular wilderness fishing area to be abutted by a cycle track, the construction of which included the creation of artificial stop banks, an amenity block and several bridges. (This when a road is already available from Mt Nicholas).
The popularity of this fishery is such that a 'beat' system is in place, with beats beginning and ending at access points up the river.
Fish and Game's role in the hearing process, along with anglers and outdoors enthusiasts who made submissions is to be applauded.
Of course, the decision is most likely to be appealed, but the precedent is set which is a very important win. NZ's scenic fisheries are heavily pressured already, so protecting what's left is an important legacy issue for future generations.
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