The Wildlife Act deals with the protection and control of wild animals and birds and the management of game. The Act does not provide for a public process in decisions. For example, on licences for captive species, approval of deer farms or issue of wild animal recovery licences. The Act sets out in a series of schedules the levels of protection for different wildlife, listing those birds and animals which fall into each category.
Public access is restricted.
Wildlife Refuges Areas of mainly private land set aside to protect wildlife and game birds. Wildlife Management Reserves Areas managed to benefit wildlife. Wildlife Districts Areas mainly set aside for managing game birds. Either the department or a fish and game council will control the wildlife district. Provisions include submission of plans, appointment of inspectors, concerted action and obstruction of inspectors.