A targeted effort to reduce the backlog of applications for use of conservation land is accelerating economic growth without compromising conservation values, says Conservation Minister Tama Potaka.
"Over the years, decision makers at the Department of Conservation – Te Papa Atawhai became wrapped and trapped in a sticky ball of red tape unnecessarily slowing the success of tourism operators, researchers, major infrastructure project developers, among many others.
"The Department is doing a great job delivering on my expectation to crack on with the mahi. The total number of applications awaiting decisions has dropped from around 1300 last September to now under 550. The processing of these applications in April and May this year were nearly three times faster than the same time last year - up by 180%.
"We're achieving these results through a data-driven approach and smarter, more efficient systems and processes, including new technology such as AI tools helping to scan statutory documents.
"A standout example is the new one-off drone permits process: previously taking weeks, these applications are now processed within five working days.
"Around a third of the applications DOC has processed since February are related to tourism, the country's second-largest export earner, where more than 380 tourism related applications in the last three months were processed, including guiding activities in Fiordland and heli hunt and fish concessions for helicopter landings in the North Island.
"This month, DOC has approved Kokiri Lime's application to quarry 1 ha of rock needed for critical roading and flood protection infrastructure projects in South Westland having first received the application more than five years ago.
"Processing applications quicker means businesses get certainty faster. DOC is enabling a wide range of activities that connect people with nature and support local economies, while more quickly declining proposals where the effects on nature or heritage cannot be avoided, remedied, or mitigated.
"The conservation estate covers a third of our country. It's not just a sanctuary, it's a shared space where tourism, science, infrastructure, and community projects intersect with nature. We're now managing that balance faster and smarter.
"We are ensuring activity on conservation land is lawful and sustainable while protecting the natural environment that is the lifeblood of our economy."
