Conservation Minister Sandra Lee has rejected complaints from West Coasters that she rushed through the approval process for wilderness areas in the present Government's final few days.
Ms Lee, who is retiring from Parliament when the new Cabinet takes over, announced on Friday the creation of two wilderness areas onWest Coast public conservation land.
Her approval of the Paparoa area, south of Westport, covering 30,768ha, was "disgusting", said Buller mayor Pat O'Dea.
"It should be left for the incoming minister to properly evaluate. I think it's immensely unfair and probably close to being illegal."
He described the decision as another case of the Government interfering with West Coasters' ability to administer their land.
Labour's West Coast/Tasman MP, Damien O'Connor, said he was extremely disappointed that the decision not only confirmed the Paparoa area but also extended its boundaries.
"The minister did not consult Labour ministers as is the protocol through the period between the change of Government," he said.
Ms Lee said the decision should come as no surprise to anyone.
"The Adams and Northern Paparoa areas have been managed as wilderness areas for 20 years now," she said.
"I announced my intention to give formal recognition to the wilderness status on March 8 this year and invited public submissions on the proposal, which were received up to May 10."
She said formal hearings were held by the Department of Conservation, which then formally reported to her on the issues raised.
John Wilson, president of Federated Mountain Clubs, which identified the areas as important wilderness 20 years ago, yesterday welcomed Ms Lee's decision.
He said it was important to keep the areas as free of development as possible to allow for recreation on "nature's terms".
