We have a new date for the Bioblitz, a citizen-science effort to record as many species within the area within the day. Everyone is welcome to attend!
Events
Protecting biodiversity
Last updated: 22 February 2023
Reporting frequency: Quarterly
Portfolio: Biodiversity and biosecurity
We are protecting, enhancing and regenerating priority habitats and wetlands in collaboration with the community. We are doing this by creating a shared regional approach to biodiversity – enabling, leading and supporting partnerships that will protect and restore Canterbury’s indigenous biodiversity.
We do this through a programme of biodiversity initiatives, which deliver on the Canterbury Biodiversity Strategy and Canterbury Water Management Strategy criteria to protect and regenerate priority habitats and investment in creating corridors and linkages to connect these habitats.
We are continuing work to revitalise the Canterbury Biodiversity Strategy through a coordinated regional approach to biodiversity that identifies regional priorities, including marine ecosystems, and reflects the roles of all partners and stakeholders. In doing so, we are engaging with mana whenua to ensure we identify and protect kaitiakitanga roles and valued places.
This work includes:
- Establishing a regional biodiversity monitoring framework.
- Supporting the ‘Managing Wetlands as Farm Assets’ project.
- Developing Wetlands Action Plans for willing landowners.
- Building awareness of the ecological, environmental and cultural importance of wetlands.
- Monitoring resource consents for wetland-related activities and undertaking compliance and enforcement of regulatory requirements
- Supporting Pest Free Panks Peninsula.
How are we tracking on our Levels of Service?
Level of Service 13 Lead a shared regional approach to biodiversity.
To achieve this level of service we will:
- 13.1 Revitalise the Canterbury Biodiversity Strategy, ensuring it identifies regional priorities and the roles of all partners and stakeholders
- 13.2 Work with Ngāi Tahu on decision making relating to indigenous biodiversity
- 13.3 Develop and implement a regional biodiversity monitoring framework
How are we doing: This project is contingent on the release of the National Policy Statement for Indigenous Biodiversity by Central Government, which has been delayed. This impacts our ability to progress.
At risk
Level of Service 15 Work with landowners, Ngāi Tahu, the community and agencies to protect, enhance and regenerate priority habitats including wetlands.
To achieve this level of service we will:
- 15.1 Work with partners to implement priority habitat protection and restoration projects
- 15.2 Increase understanding of the effectiveness of Environment Canterbury-funded biodiversity projects
- 15.3 Work with landowners to protect and maintain natural wetlands
How are we doing: Good progress is being made on wetland management plans. No data is available for programmes that report annually.
On track
How are we doing on our key initiatives?
Develop a biodiversity monitoring framework
How are we doing: We are continuing to test and evaluate monitoring methodologies.
On track
Working with landowners to protect, enhance and regenerate priority habitats
How are we doing: We have partnered with landowners and allocated funding to projects across the region.
On track
Delivery of on the ground biodiversity projects
How are we doing: Funding has been allocated for targeted biodiversity projects across braided rivers, wetlands, fish habitat and pest control in partnership.
On track
Recent highlights and updates
News
Celebrate World Wetlands Day by signing up to attend our Bioblitz event at Muriwai o Whata on Saturday 18 February.
News
A mana whenua-led project involving the construction of a wetland near Ngāti Moki Marae has taken a significant step forward.
News
Two recent community propagation workshops for farmers were held in Hinds and Hawarden.