A Coromandel conservation group says farmers will have less control of their land under new land designations proposed for properties on the peninsula.
Thames-Coromandel District Council last week sent letters to about 4000 residents, proposing their properties be designated significant natural areas, due to the native habitats on them.
The council is developing a draft district plan, which is to be released in the middle of next year, when formal submissions will be called.
The Upper Coromandel Landcare Association is already against the move, saying it would give the council more control over how the land is used.
Spokesperson Reihana Robinson says new rules and regulations would be imposed on landowners, at a cost to all ratepayers.
She says that under the new designation, all rats would have to be eradicated, which would mean an increase in the use of poisons.
However, district plan manager Leigh Robcke says many landowners are pleased their land is being recognised as significant by the council.
