On 25 June, the Game Animal Council (Herds of Special Interest) Amendment Bill passed its third reading in Parliament. It becomes law on Royal Assent, which follows shortly.
What the Bill does:
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Confirms the Minister for Hunting and Fishing can designate a Herd of Special Interest in a National Park.
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Exempts a designated herd from the National Parks Act requirement to exterminate introduced animals "as far as possible".
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Amends the Game Animal Council Act 2013, with a matching cross-reference added to the National Parks Act so the two laws line up.
What Happens Next:
The Minister for Hunting and Fishing, Hon James Meager, has said he expects to decide on designating Fiordland wapiti and Central North Island sika as our first Herds of Special Interest in the near future. We will keep you posted.
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