The conservation of native flora and fauna is actively pursued in New Zealand and is backed by legislation. A Nature Conservation Council of independent members expert in the field of conservation was established by legislation in 1962 to coordinate scientific and technical information on nature conservation, to inquire into the effect of proposed public works on any aspect of nature conservation, and to act as an advisory body to Government on matters affecting nature conservation. Specific areas have been set apart as public reserves for scenic purposes, and as national parks where native flora and fauna are given absolute protection and the public normally has unrestricted rights of access. Other areas have been set apart for the preservation of flora and fauna with, in some cases, restricted rights of access.