Submissions

Clause: Overall thoughts about the introduction section and the need for an NPSIB:
Notes: The Waikato Conservation Board strongly endorses the proposals in the draft NPS to halt the loss of indigenous biodiversity and to introduce measures to incentivise restoration. The Board acknowledges the significant work that has preceded the release of the draft NPS and the input of the Biodiversity Collaborative Group. Preventing the loss of any further native species is seen by the Board as a critical aim of conservation efforts in New Zealand and therefore hopes that the provisions of the NPS will be an effective tool to contribute to this outcome. Because implementing the proposals could create a considerable burden for Regional and District Councils, and disturb current economic and social behaviours at a community level, a transitioning period may be needed to manage the changes smoothly and positively at a pace that communities can cope with.

Clause: Question 1: Do you agree a NPSIB is needed to strengthen requirements for protecting our native plants, animals and ecosystems under the Resource Management Act 1991 (RMA)? Why/why not?
Position: Yes
Notes: The RMA has not prevented substantial loss of biodiversity and therefore stronger measures are required which the NPSIB should provide. Our native species, from birds, lizards and fish to micro-organisms are a part of us, and we rely on them for our health and wellbeing. Leaving their protection to those who also seek financial gain has not worked so strong and clear legislation is needed.

Clause: Question 2: The scope of the proposed NPSIB focuses on the terrestrial environment and the restoration and enhancement of wetlands. Do you think there is a role for the NPSIB within coastal marine and freshwater environments? Why/why not?
Position: Yes
Notes: The existing regulatory framework for coastal and freshwater areas has failed indigenous biodiversity so adding complementary measures through this NPS with a strong focus on protecting biodiversity in these environments will be beneficial. The recent Hauraki Gulf Marine Park celebrations which we attended recently highlighted the dire need for more protection in the Coastal Marine Area for marine life and seabirds, and the Motiti Island issues send an unequivocal message that we need to get better at managing fisheries sustainably.

Clause: Question 3: Do you agree with the objectives of the proposed NPSIB? (see Part 2.1 of the proposed NPSIB) Why/why not?
Position: Yes
Notes: We agree with all the objectives listed in the proposed NPSIB, in particular that Hutia te Rito becomes a fundamental concept as a means to transition our biodiversity management system to one that acknowledges and incorporates Te Ao Maaori, and Matauranga and Tikanga Maaori. The Board sees this approach as more sustainable long term and elevating consideration of the continued functioning of ecosystems and their components when natural resources are affected by development. In the past we have accepted biodiversity loss as a means to increase economic gains or efficiencies, such as in agriculture, but more and more we are seeing that this is very short term thinking and we are losing the benefits from ecosystem services provided by biodiversity. Suffering those consequences such as sediment loss, flooding and lack of beneficial insects creates more costs which the whole of society has to bear. The objectives set out in the proposed NPSIB should rebalance things.

Clause: Question 4: Hutia te Rito recognises that the health and well-being of nature is vital to our own health and wellbeing. This will be the underlying concept of the proposed NPSIB. Do you agree? Why/why not?
Position: Yes
Notes

Clause: Question 6: Do you think the proposed NPSIB appropriately takes into account the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi? Why/why not?
Position: Yes
Notes

Clause: Question 7: What opportunities and challenges do you see for the way in which councils would be required to work with tangata whenua when managing indigenous biodiversity? What information and resources would support the enhanced role of tangata whenua in indigenous biodiversity management? Please explain
Notes: Capacity and timeliness of feedback and advice is often an issue for tangata whenua when feeding into council and RMA processes. Thought should be given as to how tangata whenua could be better resourced and supported to fulfil their enhanced role.