Media release
18 November 2016

Collaboration established to improve the wellbeing of the Hauraki Gulf

A collaborative relationship to improve environmental outcomes for the Hauraki Gulf has been established between Auckland Council, the Department of Conservation (DOC) and Foundation North.

A memorandum of understanding (MoU) will see Auckland Council and DOC provide advice, technical expertise and support for Foundation North’s Gulf Innovation Fund Together (GIFT) project.

GIFT is a $5 million innovation fund launched in August 2016 that aims to support the development of innovative solutions to complex environmental challenges facing the Hauraki Gulf.

Foundation North Chief Executive Jennifer Gill is delighted with the partnership and says that working collaboratively will increase the impact and outcomes of the GIFT fund.

“The Foundation looked at ways to address a major regional issue and saw an opportunity to turn back the tide on degradation of the Hauraki Gulf. We are proud to have signed this agreement which means we will be able to draw on the combined strengths of two major organisations to support this initiative. We hope over time to engage other government, local government, community and commercial organisations to contribute to this work as well.”

Auckland Council Biodiversity Manager Rachel Kelleher says the partnership with Foundation North and DOC is an important move forward to facilitate broader community action.

“Hauraki Gulf is hugely valued by the people of Auckland, and is a globally significant hotspot for seabird biodiversity, with a range of management challenges. We’re excited to be working together to face these by taking a holistic approach.”

Meg Poutasi, Partnerships Director at the Department of Conservation, says the partnership is a great example of how engaging with different organisations can provide maximum impact.

“Conservation works when we all work together. Tīkapa Moana, the Hauraki Gulf, is a taonga/treasure for all Aucklanders and visitors to Auckland. By working collaboratively, we can maximise the support Foundation North provides for conservation and environmental outcomes. Together we can continue to protect our significant sacred places and species.”

The partnership will be reviewed annually and is managed by a Relationship Manager from each organisation.

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