3 April, 2006

Nominees sought for Wellington Conservation Board

Wanted – Energetic people with an interest in conservation to fill four vacancies on the Wellington Conservation Board.

Just three nomination forms have been received by the Department of Conservation (DOC) for four vacancies on the Wellington Conservation Board… with the closing date for applications looming on April 10, board secretary Kerry Swadling said.

“We are keen to receive more nominations from people with a keen interest in conservation. Being on a conservation board gives you an opportunity to contribute to the conservation, protection and management of New Zealand’s natural heritage.”

Conservation boards are independent statutory bodies appointed by the Minister of Conservation to advise on the department's policy and activities at a regional level. They provide for interaction between the community and the department.

Members are appointed for their experience, expertise and links with the local community, they may have knowledge of nature conservation, natural earth and marine sciences, cultural heritage, outdoor recreation, tourism, the local community and Maori perspectives.

The Wellington Conservation Board meets six times a year.

Board chairman Bill Carter said his six years on the board had been rewarding and enlightening.

“There are so many aspects of our daily lives and being a member of a conservation board helps bring those views into discussion. It also teaches you to listen to other viewpoints and try to arrive at a consensus.”

Further information and nomination forms can be obtained from DOC offices throughout New Zealand or from the board website www.conservationboards.org.nz.

Nomination forms should be sent to Kerry Swadling, Department of Conservation, PO Box 5086, Wellington.

ENDS

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