Reserves Act 1977 (No. 66 of 1977).

The main goals of this Act, consisting of 5 Parts and 4 Schedules, are to: provide for the preservation and management of areas of New Zealand possessing special features or values such as recreational use, wildlife habitat, etc.; ensure, as far as possible, the preservation of representative natural ecosystems or landscapes and the survival of indigenous species of rare flora and fauna; and ensure, as far as practicable, the preservation of access for the public to the coastline, islands, lakeshore and riverbanks, and to encourage the protection and preservation of the natural character of these areas.
The Act provides for the acquisition of land for reserves, and the classification and management of reserves (including leases and licences). Reserves shall be classified into eight categories as follows: national reserves which have value of national or international importance; recreation reserves; scenic reserves; nature reserves which shall be established to protect and preserve indigenous rare flora and fauna and where, in order to enter, a permit is necessary; scientific reserves where the entry may be restricted to permit holders; government purpose reserves, which shall include wildlife management areas; local purpose reserves; and wilderness areas where no buildings, animals, roads, etc. are allowed.
The Act further provides for the following matters: establishment of a Board to control and manage a reserve, and defines its internal organization; general and particular powers of the Minister and Administering Body in respect to the different categories of reserves; leases or licences of particular reserves for carrying out farming, grazing or afforestation; conservation covenants; protected private land; financial provisions; offences and penalties; prescription of bylaws by the Minister for the control of reserves; etc.