PLEASE TAKE CARE DR SMITH - BIO- DIVERSITY'S TOO IMPORTANT TO PLAY POLITICS

Few will disagree with the goal of protecting New Zealand's unique bio-diversity.  And the debate will always be articulated by extreme positions.   The reality for most Kiwis will lie somewhere in the middle. 
Bio-diversity is too important to be dictated by extreme views, or subjected to political ideology.
So the challenge for Dr Smith and the government, is to achieve a strategy that can accommodate most positions within acceptable goals.  It needs real national leadership - not profile posturing!
Here is an opportunity for the government to implement policy that recognises locality differences and respects local knowledge and history.  It should accommodate site specific demands and imperatives.    It is an opportunity to show a new kind of governance - one that can realistically engage with informed stakeholders.
One size will not fit all - but the goals will be the constant.   The differences between farmers and conservationists can be bridged by a flexible and responsive government.  Such an approach can illustrate a process desperately needed in the RMA, Building Act to name but two.