29 September 2016

New whole-of-community partnership will deliver major ecological gains for Taranaki Mounga

Taranaki Mounga is today welcoming new strategic investors to its large-scale restoration project to transform Taranaki’s mountains and ranges into a haven for thriving wildlife.

Shell New Zealand, TSB Community Trust, Jasmine Social Investments and Landcare Research will become founding sponsors in Taranaki Mounga. They join founders, the Department of Conservation (DOC), Taranaki iwi Chairs and the NEXT Foundation in the $24 million ecological restoration project. The new partners were today presented with plaques by Conservation Minister Maggie Barry, at a function acknowledging their involvement with the project.

Taranaki Mounga chairman Jamie Tuuta says Taranaki Mounga is a great example of a collaboration between iwi, corporates, philanthropists, the community and government that will make a real difference towards restoring the ecology of the mountain and be an iconic stepping stone toward the vision of a Predator Free New Zealand by 2050.

“These new partners have long shown their commitment to the region, and the environment, and are investing significant funds to transform Taranaki’s national park and off shore islands for future generations. Bringing the Mounga ‘He kawa ora - Back to life’,” he says.

Chairman of Shell New Zealand Rob Jager says Shell is pleased to be part of a visionary partnership which will enhance biodiversity outcomes in the community for generations to come.

“The Taranaki Mounga has huge cultural significance and has also been the physical heart of Shell’s New Zealand operations for more than 60 years. This is a unique opportunity for iwi, business and the community to come together to support this transformational conservation programme which we all care deeply about,” he says.

TSB Community Trust Chief Executive Maria Ramsay says this is a great opportunity for the Trust to work in partnership with iwi, government, business, community and other philanthropic organisations.

“Collectively we can achieve so much more. It is exciting to be part of a project that ensures the Mounga is returned to its natural state with an abundance of wildlife, not only for those living in Taranaki today but also for future generations. Our Mounga is at the heart of our region and his wellbeing is integral to the wellbeing of our community,” she says.

Landcare Research General Manager Justine Daw says the Crown Research Institute is looking forward to working with the project.

“We are the lead providor of public-good, land-based science in New Zealand. Our innovative work to manage pests and restore nature will support Taranaki Mounga to achieve its goals and demonstrate benefits,” she says.

Project Director Jan Hania says such an aspirational project will take time and effort from the many partners and the Taranaki community, drawing on in- depth local knowledge as well as learning and innovation from outside the region.

For more information about Taranaki Mounga and how you can get involved go to www.taranakimounga.nz or follow Taranaki Mounga on Facebook

ENDS

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