Public comment on the draft zoning plan will be sought by the Marine Park Authority over a three-month period following its release in late March.

In the wake of criticism over a lack of community consultation in the whole process, NSW Primary Industries Minister, Ian Macdonald, remains adamant that the state government is committed to a constructive consultation process with the full range of stakeholders.

"We want to strike the right balance, and the way to do that is through consultation," Mr Macdonald said.

"We have committed to listening to the community, and that is what we are doing.

"Our objective is to see a balanced representation of sanctuary zones and viable commercial and recreational activities.

"We also want to look at the socio-economic and environmental impacts so we can reach an outcome that delivers something for all users," he said.

Following the three month period of public comment, the final zoning plan will be released in July, and the plan (and effectively the marine park) implemented in October.

Of concern for many stakeholders has been the use of four-wheel drive vehicles on beaches adjoining the marine park, and the impact it will have on commercial and recreational fishing.

However, planning officer with the Marine Park Authority, Samantha Hessey, said that all current activities in the area covered by the marine park, which are permitted by the local council or the National Parks and Wildlife Service, would be able to continue.

Commercial fishing within the park will require a permit, but these will be free to existing operators.

The Port Stephens-Great Lakes Marine Park was declared in December last year.

The park covers a total of 97,000 hectares that stretches from Anna Bay at the northern end of Stockton Beach to the Cape Hawke Surf Life Saving clubhouse at Forster.

* November 30, 2005 - Marine Park declared by NSW Primary Industries Minister, Ian Macdonald and NSW Environment Minister, Bob Debus.

* January 27, 2006 - Close of submissions for a Community and Visitor Questionnaire focusing on recreational activities in the marine park.

* Late March, 2006 - Draft zoning plan released for three-month period of public comment.

* July, 2006 - Final zoning plan released.

* October, 2006 - Zoning plan implemented and the marine park takes effect.