Federated Farmers has told MPs that proposed new walking access laws will pose serious safety risks to farmers, who already have to deal with criminal behaviour on their land, reports Radio New Zealand.

The Walking Access Bill aims to open public access to the outdoors, especially to lakes and rivers.

Proposed changes have settled on an agreement to negotiate access with relevant stakeholders, after vigorous opposition from the farming sector.

But the Marlborough branch of Federated Farmers says they already have regular run-ins with trespassers and poachers, and say the bill will make it easier for these people to access farms.

President Geoff Evans gave told members of the Local Government And Environment Select Committee an example from his own personal experience, when the police failed to send help when a group of people came on to the property.

Recreational users, such as jet boaters and four wheel drivers told MPs they are very concerned that their access will be restricted, as the bill would enable existing routes to be designated for walkers only, excluding a huge number of people.

Read the related article Access to New Zealand's Walkways.