Field adviser to speak

New Zealand Walking Access Commission’s field adviser for the Bay of Plenty region, South Waikato and Taupo¯ districts John Gibbs is the speaker at the Taupo¯ branch of Forest and Bird’s next meeting.

Raised on a Taihape hill country farm, and with a 46-year-long career with the New Zealand Wildlife Service and Department of Conservation, John’s experience managing access issues for anglers and his broad experience working with recreationalists and officials gives him a strong understanding of access issues.

Getting to New Zealand’s lakes, beaches, rivers and mountains is at the heart of our Kiwi way of life. The beauty and diversity of our landscapes enrich and inspire us, and having access to these places is part of New Zealand’s culture and heritage.

The New Zealand Walking Access Commission is the Crown entity that plays a lead role in protecting this heritage by promoting free, certain, enduring and practical access to the outdoors. Its role includes establishing these walkways and approving and monitoring controlling authorities. It aims to strengthen the links between rural and urban New Zealand and facilitate new opportunities for people to access and enjoy the great outdoors.

The meeting will be held on Tuesday, June 12 from 5.30pm to 7.30pm at REAP in Titiraupenga St. The cost is $5, with a light supper provided.