News

MP welcomes St James purchase

Maryan Street

08.10.2008

Maryan Street says she is delighted the government has moved to protect a major high country station backing the southern border of the Nelson Lakes National Park.

Prime Minister Helen Clark and Conservation Minister Steve Chadwick today announced that the Government has purchased the property to protect it for future generations of New Zealanders.

Helen Clark said the $40 million purchase of St James Station, in North Canterbury, guarantees public access to this magnificent property and protects it from intensive farming and development.

Maryan Street said the Nelson Lakes National Park was already a very popular destination for many Nelsonians, who would now also be able to enjoy permanent access to this property and its almost untouched landscape.

The purchase would also boost tourism interest in the wider area, she said.

"I was very supportive of this move when it came before Cabinet and am delighted at today's announcement. It will provide the necessary protection for a range of outdoor recreational pursuits that only Government ownership can provide. I am looking forward to visiting it myself."

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