Conservation Minister Tama Potaka said we must work harder and smarter to protect biodiversity. Photo: RNZ / Samuel Rillstone
Proposed changes to the Department of Conservation's work are being announced by the minister today.
Conservation Minister Tama Potaka says there will be new goals to achieve by 2030 for the Predator Free 2050 strategy, changes to increase revenue and non-government funding for biodiversity, prioritisation of species and habitats for action, and moves to improve evidence and knowledge for effective decision making.
"Today, the Department of Conservation - Te Papa Atawhai is releasing two discussion documents for public consultation, and I encourage all New Zealanders to read them and share their views," he said.
"Our beloved biodiversity provides a world-class wealth of environmental and economic benefits for Aotearoa New Zealand.
However, more than 4000 species were threatened or at risk of extinction, he said - "so we must work harder and smarter to protect biodiversity".
"We're also consulting on next steps toward our ambitious goal of a predator free New Zealand by 2050, which was first launched by National nine years ago.
"It's time to take stock and ensure we are focussed on achieving the right things together for the next five years."
The discussion documents are available on the Department of Conservation website. Consultation closes on 30 June 2025.
More to come...
