Auckland’s globally significant biodiversity will benefit from a major boost, with new central government investment of $10 million set to accelerate conservation efforts already underway across the region.
Announced today by Minister for Conservation Hon Tama Potaka at an event with Auckland Council, the NEXT Foundation, mana whenua and local conservation leaders at Long Bay Regional Park, this funding marks the first environmental activation under the Auckland Regional Deal.
It builds on years of sustained investment by Auckland Council and activity by mana whenua, central government, conservation groups and the wider community to protect and restore the region’s unique natural environment.
Mayor Wayne Brown says the investment recognises Auckland’s strong environmental track record and provides an opportunity to scale up what is already working.
“Auckland has some of the most unique native species in the world. We know how much Aucklanders value our natural environment and we have been investing where it matters to protect it,” says Mayor Brown.
“This support from central government builds on that foundation and means we can do more, faster – backing the work already being led by the council, communities and mana whenua across the region.
“It’s also an important step in delivering on the Auckland Regional Deal as the first activation under the Natural Environment and Harbour key area, and our region’s contribution to the national Predator Free Strategy. This is about practical action and real results for Auckland.
“I would also like to thank the generosity of the NEXT Foundation in supporting this great initiative, they are making a real difference and doing something that we can all be proud of.”
The NEXT Foundation is a philanthropic foundation seeking to inspire New Zealand to become the world’s first nature-positive country. CEO Andrew Grant also announced today that NEXT will commit to co-funding alongside partners to accelerate delivery of Predator Free activity in Auckland.
“Having previously served on the Hibiscus and Bays Local Board, I have a strong passion for protecting and enhancing our natural environment in local places,” says Councillor Victoria Short.
“As a ward councillor, I’m delighted to be able to continue that local commitment through regional partnerships such as this one between the Department of Conservation, Auckland Council and the NEXT Foundation.
“This investment will make a tangible difference, amplifying local conservation success stories to have regional impact.”
Auckland’s biodiversity is unique and under threat
Tāmaki Makaurau is home to internationally significant ecosystems and threatened native species across forests, wetlands, islands and coastlines. These are under increasing pressure from urban growth, pests and climate change.
Auckland Council’s current investment includes the Natural Environment Targeted Rate – a dedicated programme that delivers on the Regional Pest Management Plan and funds council and community-led action to protect priority ecosystems and threatened species in Auckland.
This has already enabled large-scale pest control, habitat restoration and species protection, with more than 500 community groups playing a central role in delivering outcomes on the ground.
Auckland Council’s General Manager Environmental Services Samantha Hill says the new central government funding will amplify these efforts and strengthen partnerships across the conservation sector.
“This is a great opportunity to accelerate the progress and impact of existing activity and investment,” says Ms Hill.
“Auckland’s approach to conservation is built on partnerships with the council, mana whenua, volunteers, community groups, the Department of Conservation, schools, business and others all playing critical roles. By working together and building on what we’ve already achieved, we can protect and enhance te taiao / the environment for generations to come.”
A strong partnership
The announcement also highlights the strong and enduring relationship between Auckland Council and the Department of Conservation, as well as a shared commitment to new ways of working as outlined in the Auckland Regional Deal.
The $10 million investment will support further progress towards predator-free outcomes in Tāmaki Makaurau.
Delivered over five years, the funds will be strategically allocated to leverage off efforts and investment from the council, communities, mana whenua and the philanthropic sector.
The programme will strengthen predator-free safe havens such as Tiritiri Matangi, accelerate eradication efforts on Waiheke, Kawau, and Great Barrier Islands, and support Auckland's first urban mainland predator elimination project.