Aotearoa New Zealand is a biodiversity hotspot. Plants and animals here evolved in isolation for millions of years, creating an astonishing number and diversity of endemic species including flightless birds and giant snails, found nowhere else on earth.
Southern rock lobster. Image M Rutherford, CC by 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons
The added pressures from climate change and increased climate hazard risk will have adverse effects on many of our natural features and indigenous species1 . The way in which people, specifically decision-makers, value nature will have a considerable influence on the health and wellbeing of both human systems and the natural world.
Forest & Bird welcomes the conservation initiatives outlined in the 13 actions. However, we are concerned with the higher priority given to terrestrial ecosystems, which can lead to the underappreciation and neglect of coastal/marine and freshwater environments. These areas are equally vital, supporting diverse wildlife and playing crucial roles in climate regulation, coastal protection, and the livelihoods of communities. By expanding our focus to include these habitats and aquatic biodiversity, we can promote a more comprehensive approach to environmental preservation that ensures the health and resilience of all ecosystems.
Forest & Bird agrees that implementing Te Mana o te Taiao, along with the ANZBS, requires a collective effort. However, we are concerned that there seems to be a disconnect between the implementation plan and the time-bound objectives and goals of Te Mana o te Taiao. We find it surprising that the discussion document lacks an analysis or summary regarding the extent to which the 2025 goals have been achieved. This information would be a crucial foundation for determining actions in the upcoming implementation plan. Understanding what has worked and what has not from the previous five-year implementation plan is vital for setting the trajectory for the upcoming plan, aiming to achieve Te Mana o te Taiao's publicly agreed time-bound goals. Furthermore, the connection between the four themes, the 13 actions, and the objectives and goals of Te Mana o te Taiao appears to be rather vague.
Download and read Forest & Birds response to the consultation themes.