Protect what matters locally — have your say on biosecurity in Waitaha Canterbury.
Applications are open from 2 March to 30 March 2026.
Apply to join a Biosecurity Advisory Group
Passionate about protecting Waitaha Canterbury from invasive pests? Apply to join a Biosecurity Advisory Group and help shape biosecurity priorities. Applications are open from 2 to 30 March 2026.
The groups have been running for six years now and bring together landowners, industry representatives, environmental advocates and mana whenua to provide valuable on‑the‑ground insights that help shape Waitaha Canterbury’s biosecurity work programmes.
Members meet regularly to share local knowledge, highlight emerging issues, and advise on priorities for managing pests across the region.
Who can apply and what to expect
- Advisory group locations: Central Canterbury, Christchurch/Banks Peninsula, North Canterbury and South Canterbury.
- Who should apply: Landowners and land managers, Industry representatives, Biodiversity and conservation volunteers, Mana whenua, Young people keen to have a voice in shaping Waitaha Canterbury’s biosecurity future.
- Commitment: Meetings are held three to four times a year, with venues rotating across each area and sessions open to the public. Members will also be remunerated for their time and contribution.
- Term: Three years, beginning 1 July 2026.
Ready to apply to join a Biosecurity Advisory Group?
Community knowledge strengthens biosecurity decisions
Shaun Burkett, Team Leader Regional Biosecurity and Biodiversity, says the advisory groups are an essential link between Environment Canterbury and communities who rely on healthy land and waterways.
“Local knowledge is critical for effective pest management,” Shaun says.
“Our Biosecurity Advisory Groups help ensure that decisions reflect real‑world experience - from what’s happening on farms and river margins to the challenges faced by community groups and industry. We want to hear from people who care about the region and want to play a part in protecting it.”
Councillor Nick Ward says the groups help shape long‑term thinking around biosecurity challenges.
“Biosecurity isn’t something our regional council can tackle alone,” Councillor Ward says.
“These advisory groups strengthen our partnership with the community and help us stay ahead of emerging pest threats. Their guidance is vital for ensuring our work is effective, targeted, and grounded in local realities.”
Find out how the groups work, what’s involved, and how they support pest management across Waitaha Canterbury: Learn more about Biosecurity Advisory Groups.