Linz to ‘open up’ with new high country advisory group

LAND Information New Zealand has announced the creation of a high country advisory group to help make better decisions for New Zealand’s high country regions.

Speaking at this year’s Federated Farmers High Country Conference in Cromwell yesterday, Linz deputy chief executive Crown property Jerome Sheppard said Linz needed the group because of the complications and debates around the tenure review process and the influx of tourists in the country.

‘‘We’re wanting to open up our shop a wee bit more so you can see what’s going on . . . we think debate needs to happen’’.

Linz and the Department of Conservation would be group members and Linz also wanted to invite a Federated Farmers representative to the group.

Mr Sheppard said the group would include three to six members of the public, appointed by Linz chief executive Andrew Crisp.

‘‘We are seeking expressions of interest from people or agencies with skills, knowledge and experience in areas such as farming, the environment, iwi, central and local government, and other relevant industries to join the group.’’

The group would meet at least four times a year.

Federated Farmers policy adviser Bob Douglas said there had been discussions for years but a formal group was a step in the right direction.

‘‘It’s good to have people with different views sitting around a table . . . let’s get people together to talk about the issue.’’

Applications for the advisory group opened yesterday and close on June 14.