Taranaki Biodiversity Forum 2023

This year’s Biodiversity Forum made us take stock of how fortunate we are to live in a region where so many accomplished individuals are committed to restoring our biodiversity. The scale of dedication encompasses all aspects of biodiversity – from the smallest microorganisms to our Tamariki. 

Feedback from the day centred around the privilege of getting together to share knowledge, enable connectivity and networking among members. 

Jessi Morgan’s keynote talk about the progress being made with predator-free goals nationwide reminded us that despite the difficult task ahead, we here in Taranaki are making incredible headway thanks to the hard work of so many of you.  

Although the bad weather meant ecologist Quinn Amoore’s enlightening talk on the protection and restoration of native Flora and Fauna had to take place indoors, it was followed up with a great discussion about regionally specific pest plant management.  

Tane Manu and his team shared encouraging anecdotes about the success of Te Ara Taiao – an awesome project raising the next generation of trappers, bird monitors, and ecologists. At the same time, Te Ara Taiao is connecting schools to local hapū to help align our sector with te ao Māori tikanga.  

The workshop about Mental Resilience led by Leighton Littlewood offered a rare opportunity to discuss the enormous personal investment it takes to do this work. Thank you to the panellists who opened up about the challenges of working in this sector – a reminder that self-preservation and support tools are essential.  

Leigh Honnor and Halema Jamieson gave us excellent insight into the ramifications the new National Policy Statement has on our sector and other changes to the regulatory framework.  

Thank you to Tane Houston for sharing karakia throughout the day. And finally, much appreciation to the day’s MC, Fiona Gordon, for shepherding us through the many activities. 

The Biodiversity Forum was made possible with the strategic financial support Wild for Taranaki receives from the Taranaki Regional Council.  

Thank you TRC for enabling this event – it is occasions like these that help raise morale, strengthen connections and manaakitanga within our sector.