Biodiversity Corridors Hui 2025

In November, we brought together nearly 50 biodiversity restoration experts and practitioners from across Taranaki to explore how we can collectively unlock the potential of restoring biodiversity corridors in the region. 

Biodiversity corridors are vital because they connect fragmented habitats, allowing native plants and animals to move, feed, and reproduce—ultimately creating thriving, resilient ecosystems. They are especially viable in Taranaki – a region that boasts 40 percent native bush and shrub land. River-ways, large sections of bush clad hill country have the potential to create uninterrupted pathways from the maunga, across the ring plain, and out to the sea. 

The importance of biodiversity corridors and coordinated, cross-sector planning has been a key topic among our members for more than a decade. Bringing experienced kaimahi together at last—and hearing from respected experts such as Bruce Clarkson and Sera Gibson—was a significant milestone. 

This first hui focused on sharing knowledge and creating collective ambitions to progress the restoration of biodiversity corridors. Facilitated by Danielle Gibas, Wild for Taranaki GM, and Lisa Berndt, Wai Connection Regional Coordinator, attendees took part in a series of themed activities designed to generate rich discussion and insight. 

The hui marks an exciting step toward greater cohesion and collaboration between organisations, groups, and individuals working to advance biodiversity corridors across Taranaki and Wild for Taranaki is excited to help guide this collaborative journey going forward.