That comment was made this week by Grant Hensman, of Queenstown, co-chairman of the Wakatipu Wilding Conifer Control Group.
He was responding to the results of a recent online survey, which drew responses from nearly 600 people.
The regional council said a key finding was that 93% of respondents were concerned about the spread of wilding conifers.
Participants in the survey also wanted the council to support the work of community groups controlling the spread.
"Ninety-three percent is an overwhelming majority,'' Mr Hensman said in an interview.
There had clearly been a big surge in support for stopping wilding conifer spread, compared with community views 20 years ago.
The council now had "a very clear mandate to do something''.
The regional council was considering making some provision for countering wilding conifer spread in its next annual plan, but had made no definite commitment for action, at this stage, he said.
Much more Government funding was also ultimately needed, but the ORC could "make a difference'' by ensuring it provided a significant sum in the next annual plan, and should not simply wait for further Government action.
Survey respondents said loss of scenic landscapes, damage to environmentally sensitive areas, and reduced water availability in rivers were the three impacts of wilding conifer spread that most concerned them.
Mr Hensman said continuing "education and awareness'' were needed, but people were increasingly willing to listen about the wilding conifer threat.
"When you talk to people one-on-one, you have no trouble making the case.''
And the growing groundswell of public support for action was crucial for long-term success.
Regional council chairman Stephen Woodhead said the survey feedback was "useful'' as the council considered whether to propose funding for community-based wilding conifer management projects in the council's draft 2016-17 annual plan, and develop options for public consultation.
