Statement - Chairman Nicol Horrell on Milford Opportunities Project
Environment Southland welcomes the Government’s decisions on the Milford Business Case.
The additional financial investment and direction on responsibilities and future programmes provides the Board with a strong foundation to continue its work and move forward.
As the marine and coastal regulator for Murihiku Southland, Environment Southland has supported the project Board as it progressed the business case for Milford Sound Piopiotahi; ensuring key environmental, human health and safety values were front of mind.
Balancing tourism growth with the protection of conservation values in this precious place continues to be important to our communities.
We look forward to working with the Department of Conservation on developing key aspects of the National Parks Management Plan.
Significant decisions for Environment Southland include:
- A decision not to prevent access to the fiord for cruise ships (which was one of the recommendations).
- A decision that Milford Sound Piopiotahi will remain within Fiordland National Park with no separate governance entity.
- Investment of $15.2 million for infrastructure upgrades and conservation projects including cleaning up the Little Tahiti landfill, replacing the boat ramp in Deepwater Basin, improvements to the Cleddau River flood protection, upgraded visitor facilities and a greater cultural narrative (including a gateway pou whenua).
The chief executive of Environment Southland was a member of the Milford Opportunities Ministerial Advisory Board (ex officio member).
