WELCOME TO THE CONSERVATION BOARDS' NEWSLETTER 

INSIDE THIS ISSUE: Keep up to date with the activities of Conservation Boards around Aotearoa New Zealand. In this issue discover highlights from, Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland, Bay of Plenty, Wellington, Nelson Marlborough, and Canterbury Aoraki Conservation Boards. 

Issue 37: September 2025

A MESSAGE FROM THE MINISTER

Celebrating Mātai Moana at Motukairangi  with Taranaki Whānui Chief Executive, Kara Puketapu-Dentice, Minister Chris Penk, outgoing Wellington Mayor, Tory Whanau, Minister Tame Potaka, Te Whatanui Winiata, Chair Port Nicholson Block Settlement Trust, and Huia Puketapu, Deputy Chair Taranaki Whānui. | Photo: Brían Vayndell (DOC).

Tēnā koutou katoa

Kia ora e te whānau, and welcome to another beautifully unpredictable spring here in Aotearoa New Zealand. While we may not know what kind of weather tomorrow will bring, that’s never stopped those of us dedicated to protecting our country’s precious taiao and taonga.

Of course, this will be the first time many of you have received this newsletter, nau mai haere mai to all of you who were appointed in August, and of course nau mai hoki mai to all of you returning to this important mahi. Conservation work in Aotearoa New Zealand relies on everyone coming together for a common goal, and conservation boards play a vital role in ensuring your community’s voices are heard in conservation.

The variety of skills, experience, and qualities you bring gives with confidence that together we can make a real, meaningful difference for our native species and ecosystems.

I’ve been blown away by the public response to DOC’s ‘Always Be Naturing’ campaign, and have seen the now-familiar yellow logo across Facebook, Instagram, and even on TVNZ. The new campaign aims to get people thinking outside the box about how they can help our precious nature, be it by donating or taking direct action to protect te taiao.

Around 28,000 of Aotearoa New Zealand’s species are found nowhere else on Earth, and over 4,000 of them are threatened with extinction. Once they’re gone, they’re gone for good. The Always Be Naturing campaign paints a dark picture, but with the ray of hope – it doesn’t have to be this way, and by working together we can help nature heal.

DOC is also working to get local businesses to get on board – some, like Air New Zealand and One NZ, already have - and I’m eagerly anticipating seeing more dedicated Kiwis working with nature.

Speaking of naturing, myself and Minister Chris Penk, confirmed a new public reserve on Mātai Moana in September, alongside representatives from DOC, Toitū Te Whenua Land Information New Zealand, Wellington City Council, and Taranaki Whānui.

Mātai Moana, also known as Watts Peninsula, is a 72-hectare area on the Miramar Peninsula, historically occupied by Māori for pā, kāinga, and mahinga kai. It's also strongly associated with early European settlement, farming, and defence activities.

The weather in Te Whanganui a Tara didn’t disappoint, with a fantastic combination of beaming sunshine and rushing winds welcoming the announcement. It’s been a huge effort from across DOC and LINZ to get this over the line, after almost 15 years of work, ka rawe tīma!

The site is a bit rugged right now, so it will stay closed while the Mātai Moana Charitable Trust is established to manage the reserve and prepare it for public access. I’m looking forward to visiting again once this beautiful corner of our capital is ready for us to get out and do some naturing.

On 7 October, we delivered the largest new marine protection area in more than ten years in the form of the Hauraki Gulf/Tīkapa Moana Marine Protection Act. This is the start of a new era to turn around the health of the Gulf – through tripled marine protection to support our fish and seabirds, and rebuild our unique ecosystems.

I acknowledge the continued, committed mahi from many, including the Hauraki Gulf Forum and iwi such as the Ngāi Tai ki Tāmaki nation. The legislation will come into place before the end of the year – we will be reinforcing the mahi with further International Visitor Levy investment into protecting the Hauraki Gulf, which I will announce soon.

As summer approaches with its own opportunities and challenges, remember to always be living your best lives, always be working for New Zealand and, of course, always be naturing.

Mauriora 

Hon Tama Potaka

Minister of Conservation

Minister Tama Potaka with his daughter Tiana at the Conservation Ball in Wakatipu Waimāori

UPDATES AND HIGHLIGHTS

TĀMAKI MAKAURAU AUCKLAND

Collaboration, Advocacy and Conservation outcomes

The Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland Conservation Board observing the early Spring Kuaka, Godwit arrivals at Pūkorokoro Miranda | Photo by Chris Gaskin from the Seabird Trust

Board Priorities

Our first priority is to welcome our wonderful new Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland Conservation Board (the Board) members:  Kiri Toki (Aotea), Joe Pihema (Ōrākei) and ‘Ema Latu (Waiatarua) to the Board.  Each brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to our board. We are all looking forward to building relationships with each, and to their valuable contributions to board discussions and mahi.

The Board’s mahi continues across three main areas: Collaboration, Advocacy and statutory responsibilities and Conservation outcomes.

Collaboration

Collaboration highlights have been liaison with our neighbouring boards – Te Hiku o Te Ika, Northland and Waikato.  In particular we share a strong commitment to marine conservation including shorebirds and seabirds plus pelagic and benthic ecosystems and the fish/invertebrate species they support.  On 10 September we met with members of the Waikato Conservation Board at the Miranda Shorebird Centre to better understand the priorities for Hauraki Gulf seabird and shorebird protection.

We also continue our collaboration with Ngāti Rehua Ngātiwai to develop and implement actions that will improve conservation outcomes for Aotea.

Advocacy and statutory responsibilities

Over the past six months we have been inundated with advocacy and statutory work including letters and/or submissions to:

Prime Minister and Minister of Conservation to advocate for enactment of the Tīkapa Moana / Hauraki Gulf Marine Protection Bill (June 2025).

Department of Conservation – on plans:

• To amend conservation legislation (February 2025),
• Implement the Te Mana o Te Taio Aotearoa New Zealand Biodiversity Strategy (June 2025)
• Review the Predator Free 2050 Strategy (June 2025) and
• Change the current role of Boards in conservation management (August 2025).

Fast Track Approvals Applications: 

Over the past three months we have been involved in four ongoing Fast Track Approval processes, these are:

Bledisloe North Wharf and Fergusson North Berth Extension; Application Date: 10/03/25, Initial Comments Due: 27/06/25, Decision Date: 22/08/25

Drury Quarry Expansion Sutton Block; Application Date: 30/04/25, Initial Comments Due: 24/09/25, Decision Date: 27/11/25

Kings Quarry Expansion Stage 2; Application Date:13/05/25, Initial Comments Due: TBA, Decision Date: 19/12/25

Rangitoopuni residential development; Application Date: 9/05/25, Initial Comments Due: 17/05/25, Decision Date: 27/11/25

Conservation Outcomes

Our board recognises the breadth and depth of conservation needs across our region and the risk of being spread too thin across these.  To mitigate this risk, in addition to our ongoing collaborative relationship building and advocacy work, we are focusing on two of the region’s most pressing conservation needs.  These are improved conservation outcomes for:

• Aotea
• Marine ecosystems in particular shorebirds and seabirds.

Meeting and field trip highlights

Over the past six months the Board has held two meetings and two workshops.

Kuaka, bar-tailed godwit. Group of adults showing different angles. Motueka Sandspit
| Photo by Rebecca Bowater FPSNZ.

As part of these workshops and meetings we have hosted several excellent contributors including:

• Katina Conomos, Kaihautū / Programme Director for the Mussel Reef Restoration Trust, presented to the Board about the work of the Trust to restore kūtai/mussel reefs in the Hauraki Gulf (4 June 2025 meeting).
• Steve Halley and Kathryn Lister, Fisheries New Zealand, updated the Board about the work undertaken by Fisheries New Zealand to implement the Hauraki Gulf Fisheries Plan and about proposals for reform of the Fisheries Act 1983 (4 June 2025 meeting).
• Kirsty Prior, Operations Manager Marine, Department of Conservation, presented to the Board to provide an overview of the Department’s preparations for implementation of the Hauraki Gulf /Tīkapa Moana Marine Protection Bill once it was enacted (4 June 2025 meeting).
• Megan Carbines, Lead Environmental Scientist and Dr Tarn Drylie, Senior Coastal Ecologist briefed the board at their 13 August Workshop on the extensive marine conservation research and monitoring work being undertaken by Auckland Council. 
• Emma Hill, Acting Policy Manager – Marine, Department of Conservation, provided an update at the 13 Aug workshop on the most recent set of proposed new legislative changes including the role of conservation boards and approaches to planning and concession applications.
• Keith Woodley, CEO Naturalist Trust – provided a summary of the amazing mahi being carried out at the Pūkorokoro Shorebird Centre as a key destination for migratory birds.
• Chris Gaskin, Seabird Trust presented a comprehensive summary of the plight of many of Aotearoa New Zealand’s endangered seabirds. 

Communications and Media

Over the past six months, Repeka George-Koteka has done a stellar job improving the Board’s proactive communications with a huge range of regular updates notices on our new Board appointments, Aotearoa’s unique biodiversity, each of our meetings and milestone conservation events such as the reintroduction of tieke to Aotea. Starting from a low base we now have more than 750 followers and growing!  Check us out on https://www.facebook.com/auckconservationboard/

GET INVOLVED - attend a meeting, details of upcoming Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland Conservation Board meetings can be found on the website.

BAY OF PLENTY

Strengthening iwi partnerships, enhancing biodiversity outcomes, and supporting community-led conservation initiatives

Whareroa marae, Mt Maunganui | Photo by Claire Jacobs 

Board Priorities

The Bay of Plenty Conservation Board continues to focus on strengthening iwi partnerships, enhancing biodiversity outcomes, and supporting community-led conservation initiatives. A key priority has been engaging with the FastTrack legislative framework and ensuring the Board maintains visibility and influence in emerging policy spaces.

Meeting highlights

Date & Location: 5 September 2025 – Tauranga DOC Office

Key Issues Discussed:

• Fast-Track Legislation: The Board explored avenues for involvement and support under the new framework, acknowledging the need for early visibility and strategic engagement.
• Te Tiriti Wānanga Reflections: Members shared powerful insights from the recent wānanga, reinforcing the importance of kaupapa-driven governance and relational conservation.
• Operational Reports: Updates from Whakatāne, Rotorua, and Tauranga highlighted iwi-led restoration, pest management innovation, and heritage site planning.
• Subcommittees: Allocations were confirmed for 2025, with Terms of Reference development underway to clarify scope and responsibilities.
• Wallaby Management: Continued discussions on permit accessibility and regional coordination.

Welcome to New Board Members

We warmly welcome Catherine Ball, Amy Board, and Dr Chantal Pagel to the Bay of Plenty Conservation Board:

• Catherine Ball brings over 20 years of experience in climate change, community development, and marine conservation. Her strategic leadership and advocacy for kaitiakitanga will be invaluable.
• Amy Board is a grassroots conservationist with deep ties to community resilience and mātauranga Māori. Her practical expertise and collaborative spirit will strengthen our biodiversity efforts.
• Dr Chantal Pagel is a biologist and conservation leader with a strong background in marine and terrestrial ecosystems. Her scientific insight and commitment to freshwater health and climate resilience will enrich our work.

GET INVOLVED - attend a meeting, details of upcoming Bay of Plenty Conservation Board meetings can be found on the website.

WELLINGTON

Strengthening community relationships with conservation 

DOC Staff and Wellington Conservation Board members at Lake Domain Shelter | Photo by Sally Lee 

Board Priorities 

The Wellington Conservation Board has remained active over the winter months, focusing on strategic alignment, ongoing conservation submissions, and preparing for the new Fast Track consenting process.

Although the Board has not officially met since June, the August meeting—while unable to proceed formally due to a lack of quorum—still provided a valuable opportunity for members to connect and discuss key issues informally. This situation arose due to the retirement of several members and delays in onboarding new appointees. Despite this, the gathering allowed time for productive conversations, particularly around the upcoming National Conservation Policy Statement and how it may influence the region’s conservation priorities.

The Board also used this time to reflect on its strategic direction and how best to align with the new Lower North Island Strategic Plan, as well as prepare for upcoming Fast Track applications, the first of which has now been received.

Other activities

The Board was proud to support the recent purchase of Gollan’s Valley Station by Greater Wellington Regional Council. This significant acquisition ensures long-term protection of a landscape with considerable ecological, scenic, and historic value. It represents an important step in safeguarding spaces for future generations and reinforces the region’s biodiversity and heritage.

Over the past quarter, the Board made joint submissions on two major national initiatives: Predator Free 2050 Strategy review and the New Zealand Biodiversity Strategy Implementation Plan review. These submissions reflect the Board’s continued commitment to ensuring that local conservation perspectives are represented in national policy and planning. At the next board meeting in September, we get to meet three new members.

The Board is also actively preparing for upcoming Fast-Track applications, with at least two expected before the end of year. Working through a process that enables us to recognise the potential scale of proposals that may impact conservation lands and values. This includes considering how to engage effectively and consistently in the new process.

Board members have continued to represent the Board in a range of forums and community groups, including:

• The Kāpiti Island Strategic Advisory Committee (KISAC)
• Environment Network Manawatū

In addition, members have taken part in several local planting days over the winter months, supporting community conservation efforts and strengthening relationships with volunteers and stakeholders across the region.

The Board’s next formal meeting is scheduled for September, where we look forward to welcoming three new members. Their arrival will mark a refreshed chapter for the Board as it continues its work across the region, with new perspectives and energy.

We anticipate a busy season ahead, with more Fast Track proposals, ongoing work on the National Conservation Policy Statement, and strategic alignment discussions with DOC and mana whenua

DOC Staff and WCB members at Lake Wairarapa Barrage Gates | Photo by Wendy Nelson 

GET INVOLVED - attend a meeting, details of upcoming Wellington Conservation Board meetings can be found on the website.

NELSON MARLBOROUGH

Championing te taiao for our community

Looking down the Acheron River, Molesworth Recreation Reserve | Photo by Jo Gould

Board Priorities

The Nelson Marlborough Conservation Board has recently focused on strategic conservation challenges including the upcoming lease expiry and future management of Molesworth Recreation Reserve, the urgent need for wilding conifer control in the Branch and Leatham areas and supporting iwi-led restoration initiatives through the Kotahitanga mō te Taiao Alliance. The Board is also actively engaged in legislative reforms affecting conservation land and strengthening Treaty Partner engagement.

Meeting highlights

At the August 2025 meeting in Renwick, the Board welcomed new Board members Te Ahu Rei and Tom Williams. With Te Ahu’s appointment, the Board will have representation from all iwi in Te Tau Ihu. Mr Rei’s background has largely been in the Education sector from teaching at primary and secondary through to tertiary level. Tom brings a background in finance, law and sustainability. We look forward to the experience the two new members will bring to the Board.

The Board also farewelled Rima Piggott and Scott Burnett, thanking them for their contribution and mahi to the Board over the last few years. Rima contributed to the Board’s cultural capability. Scott was the Board’s representative on the Tasman Environmental Trust.

Other activities

The Board provided a response to DOC on the proposed National Conservation Policy Statement proposals. The Board agrees changes must be made to manage public conservation land more effectively but has concerns about the proposed changes. A key issue of concern is a general lack of honouring Te Tiriti o Waitangi through acknowledging Māori rights, and iwi settlement commitments, managing impacts on taiao, protecting wāhi tapu and taonga and embedding cultural values in the process and proposal.

GET INVOLVED - attend a meeting, details of upcoming Nelson Marlborough Conservation Board meetings can be found on the website.

CANTERBURY AORAKI

Celebrating community conservation excellence

Winners of Te Waka o Aoraki award Whakaora Te Waikēkēwa project | Photo by Richard Suggate

Board Priorities

Key focus areas for the Board include their Treaty responsibilities and strengthening its partnership with Ngāi Tahu, raising awareness and advocacy for biodiversity outcomes and risks, pest control, climate adaptation, and visitor recreation related issues including tracks, huts and infrastructure (including back country).

Conservation Board Awards

The Canterbury Aoraki Conservation Board awards the ‘Te Waka o Aoraki’ trophy to a person or group of people who have nominated themselves to be considered for the award.  The award is sponsored by The Isaac Conservation and Wildlife Trust.

This year there were 25 (twenty-five) applicants. On 3 September five awards were presented, and four groups were highly commended.  The event provided a wonderful opportunity for networking and a celebration of community conservation.

Awards were presented to:

Te Waka o Aoraki Award

Te Waka o Aoraki winner: Te Taumutu Rūnanga & Environment Canterbury for the Whakaora Te Waikēkēwai project, read more about this mahi tewaihora.org

Second Place: South Island Wildlife Hospital

Third Place: Te Ara Kākāriki Greenway Canterbury Trust

Highly Commended: Conservation Volunteers New Zealand, Styx Living Laboratory Trust, Trees For Canterbury, and Arthur’s Pass Wildlife Trust

Schools Award

Ararira Springs & Springston Enviroschools

Small Groups Award

Bug Bags Collective

Meeting highlights

Christchurch on 1 September 2025

Key issues discussed at the meeting included the Board’s presentation to the Environment Select Committee on their submission to the Herds of Special Interest Amendment Bill, visitor pressure at Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, streamlining of the concessions and planning processes and enabling more flexibility to sell and exchange conservation land.

Other highlights from the meeting included presentations from the Department of Conservation on the Rakitata Revival Programme / Whakahaumanu o Te Rakitata Awa, a strategy document for the Rangitata River, bringing together manawhenua, government agencies and the community with the collective mahi of restoring the mauri of the awa, ki uta ki tai, and a more in-depth picture of the work, issues and opportunities within the Mahaanui district.

Canterbury Aoraki Conservation Board members, Department of Conservation Staff and stakeholders 
| Photo by Marie-Louise Grandiek

Field trip highlights

Ashley Rakahuri River on 18 August 2025

The Board undertook a field trip to the Ashley Rakahuri River to gain a broader perspective on the Department of Conservation and stakeholder activities on the river.

The Board visited key sites along the river and were briefed on:

• Whitebaiting issues including the Department’s role in compliance of the Whitebait Fishing Regulations 2021
• Māori fishing rights and whitebaiting, including management by local rūnanga, iwi or hapu and the following of a tikanga-based approach to whitebaiting
• Issues in relation to ‘crate day’ and vehicle access to the river
• Weed control, gravel extraction and river protection
• Climate Resilience Programme and the Fairway Management Project
• Development and ongoing maintenance3 of tracks, pest control and management of the camping ground and neighbouring recreation reserve

The Board acknowledged the presentations from multiple stakeholders during the day, including representatives from the Department of Conservation, Waimakariri District Council, Environment Canterbury, Ngāi Tūāhuriri, Ashley Gorge Holiday Park, Braid, Ashley Rakahuri River Care Group, and the Ashley Gorge Tracks Group.

Looking up the Ashley Rakahuri River from the riverbed | Photo by Marie-Louise Grandiek

GET INVOLVED - attend a meeting, details of upcoming Canterbury Aoraki Conservation Board meetings can be found on the website.

CONSULTATIONS OPEN FOR YOUR COMMENT

Expressions of interest to extend a holding lizards in captivity authorisation:  DOC will soon invite holders of General Authorisations for lizards to apply to extend their permit to 31 October 2027.

World Heritage Tentative List review: You are invited to apply for a site to be included on Aotearoa New Zealand’s World Heritage Tentative List. This is the first step towards World Heritage status. Applications close 30 January 2026.

Keep up to date with more public consultations here.

THANK YOU FOR SUBSCRIBING TO OUR NEWSLETTER 

Next time in the Conservation Board Newsletter, we hear from Te Hiku o Te Ika, Northland, Waikato, Tongaririo/Taupo, Taranaki/ Whanganui, East Coast/Hawkes Bay, Chatham Islands, West Coast Tai Poutini, Otago and Southland Conservation Boards!