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Scoop
19 hours ago
- General
- Scoop
New Research Urges Major Policy Reset For Moving Native Freshwater Species In Aotearoa
Press Release – Cawthron Institute The paper, Rethinking freshwater translocation policy and practice in Aotearoa New Zealand, reviews more than three decades of translocation projects and concludes that current systems are fragmentary, technically under-resourced, and often fall … Cawthron Institute, Whakatū/Nelson — A landmark study just published in the New Zealand Journal of Ecology calls for a wholesale rethink of Aotearoa New Zealand's approach to authorising, managing, and monitoring how people move native freshwater fish and invertebrates. The paper, ' Rethinking freshwater translocation policy and practice in Aotearoa New Zealand,' reviews more than three decades of translocation projects and concludes that current systems are 'fragmentary, technically under-resourced, and often fall short of Te Tiriti o Waitangi commitments.' 'Translocations can support mahinga kai, rescue threatened species, and reconnect communities with awa,' said lead author Dr Aisling Rayne of Cawthron Institute, 'but without clear, cohesive policy and genuine mana whenua leadership, these efforts risk being ad-hoc and, at worst, harmful.' Three priority fixes The authors identify three shifts that would unlock the full ecological and cultural potential of freshwater translocations: Joined-up authorisation and governance – streamline permits and align the patchwork of legislation that currently spans conservation, fisheries, and regional planning. Inclusive decision-making – front-load translocation planning with mana whenua, local communities, and sector stakeholders so that who decides and how decisions are made are transparent and Treaty-honouring. Consistent monitoring and reporting – adopt nationwide standards for tracking ecological outcomes and cultural aspirations, so successes and lessons are shared rather than lost. Lessons from the field The paper features two case studies that illustrate both promise and pain points: Zealandia Te Māra a Tāne (Wellington): reintroductions of toitoi (common bully) and kākahi (freshwater mussel) showed how collaborative, Treaty-based projects can revitalise taonga species—but also how the technical know-how is often yet to be discovered. Hokonui Rūnanga (Murihiku / Southland): captive breeding and translocation of kanakana (pouched lamprey) demonstrates iwi-led leadership, yet highlights the maze of permits and biosecurity hurdles faced by community groups. 'These projects prove that culturally grounded science builds trust and public care,' said co-author Dr Joanne Clapcott (Cawthron Institute). 'What's missing is a national direction that makes this the norm, not the exception.' Looking ahead: climate change, biosecurity and new tech The paper argues that translocations will only grow in importance as climate pressures shift species' ranges and new tools—such as gamete cryobanking and broodstock surrogacy—become viable. It also warns that poorly planned 'mitigation' transfers can spread pests or distract from habitat protection. 'Freshwater translocations aren't a silver bullet,' said Dr Rayne, 'but with supportive policy and careful planning they can be a powerful part of a wider restoration toolkit.' Research partner quotes Riki Parata, Hokonui Rūnanga 'Hokonui Rūnanga welcomes the research findings, hoping they will guide iwi and their partners in the translocation of taonga species. The current framework restricts our ability to translocate our taonga, despite our tīpuna (ancestors) having done so for generations before us. This paper highlights numerous barriers and offers solutions. We are grateful for the research and support of Dr Aisling Rayne, Dr Joanne Clapcott, the Cawthron Institute, and the multiple contributors involved in bringing these findings to light. Our hope is to see new policies and processes established on the back of this research, integrating Mātauranga Māori and multiple scientific disciplines to enhance decision-making around translocations.' Dr Matthew Wylie, Plant and Food Research 'This work highlights opportunities to explore how emerging biotechnologies—such as gamete cryobanking and broodstock surrogacy—could be integrated with translocations in ways that uphold Indigenous rights and worldviews. These innovative spaces allow us to co-develop new tools and new knowledge to protect threatened freshwater taonga species in ways that honour Te Ao Māori.' Dr Danielle Shanahan, Zealandia 'Zealandia Te Māra a Tāne has witnessed first-hand how the revitalisation of mātauranga through translocations can shape people and relationships, as much as the environment. We need improvements in our back-end systems to better help achieve these outcomes.' About the study This study was completed in partnership by researchers and contributors from: Cawthron Institute, Te Kura Pūtaiao Koiora School of Biological Sciences at Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha University of Canterbury, Zealandia Te Māra a Tāne, Kitson Consulting Limited, Hokonui Rūnanga, Te Kura Mātauranga Koiora School of Biological Sciences at Te Herenga Waka Victoria University of Wellington, New Zealand's Biological Heritage National Science Challenge, and The New Zealand Institute for Plant and Food Research Limited. The open-access article includes a practical 'next steps' table for policymakers and practitioners.
Scoop
19 hours ago
- General
- Scoop
New Research Urges Major Policy Reset For Moving Native Freshwater Species In Aotearoa
Press Release – Cawthron Institute The paper, Rethinking freshwater translocation policy and practice in Aotearoa New Zealand, reviews more than three decades of translocation projects and concludes that current systems are fragmentary, technically under-resourced, and often fall … Cawthron Institute, Whakatū/Nelson — A landmark study just published in the New Zealand Journal of Ecology calls for a wholesale rethink of Aotearoa New Zealand's approach to authorising, managing, and monitoring how people move native freshwater fish and invertebrates. The paper, ' Rethinking freshwater translocation policy and practice in Aotearoa New Zealand,' reviews more than three decades of translocation projects and concludes that current systems are 'fragmentary, technically under-resourced, and often fall short of Te Tiriti o Waitangi commitments.' 'Translocations can support mahinga kai, rescue threatened species, and reconnect communities with awa,' said lead author Dr Aisling Rayne of Cawthron Institute, 'but without clear, cohesive policy and genuine mana whenua leadership, these efforts risk being ad-hoc and, at worst, harmful.' Three priority fixes The authors identify three shifts that would unlock the full ecological and cultural potential of freshwater translocations: Joined-up authorisation and governance – streamline permits and align the patchwork of legislation that currently spans conservation, fisheries, and regional planning. Inclusive decision-making – front-load translocation planning with mana whenua, local communities, and sector stakeholders so that who decides and how decisions are made are transparent and Treaty-honouring. Consistent monitoring and reporting – adopt nationwide standards for tracking ecological outcomes and cultural aspirations, so successes and lessons are shared rather than lost. Lessons from the field The paper features two case studies that illustrate both promise and pain points: Zealandia Te Māra a Tāne (Wellington): reintroductions of toitoi (common bully) and kākahi (freshwater mussel) showed how collaborative, Treaty-based projects can revitalise taonga species—but also how the technical know-how is often yet to be discovered. Hokonui Rūnanga (Murihiku / Southland): captive breeding and translocation of kanakana (pouched lamprey) demonstrates iwi-led leadership, yet highlights the maze of permits and biosecurity hurdles faced by community groups. 'These projects prove that culturally grounded science builds trust and public care,' said co-author Dr Joanne Clapcott (Cawthron Institute). 'What's missing is a national direction that makes this the norm, not the exception.' Looking ahead: climate change, biosecurity and new tech The paper argues that translocations will only grow in importance as climate pressures shift species' ranges and new tools—such as gamete cryobanking and broodstock surrogacy—become viable. It also warns that poorly planned 'mitigation' transfers can spread pests or distract from habitat protection. 'Freshwater translocations aren't a silver bullet,' said Dr Rayne, 'but with supportive policy and careful planning they can be a powerful part of a wider restoration toolkit.' Riki Parata, Hokonui Rūnanga 'Hokonui Rūnanga welcomes the research findings, hoping they will guide iwi and their partners in the translocation of taonga species. The current framework restricts our ability to translocate our taonga, despite our tīpuna (ancestors) having done so for generations before us. This paper highlights numerous barriers and offers solutions. We are grateful for the research and support of Dr Aisling Rayne, Dr Joanne Clapcott, the Cawthron Institute, and the multiple contributors involved in bringing these findings to light. Our hope is to see new policies and processes established on the back of this research, integrating Mātauranga Māori and multiple scientific disciplines to enhance decision-making around translocations.' Dr Matthew Wylie, Plant and Food Research 'This work highlights opportunities to explore how emerging biotechnologies—such as gamete cryobanking and broodstock surrogacy—could be integrated with translocations in ways that uphold Indigenous rights and worldviews. These innovative spaces allow us to co-develop new tools and new knowledge to protect threatened freshwater taonga species in ways that honour Te Ao Māori.' Dr Danielle Shanahan, Zealandia 'Zealandia Te Māra a Tāne has witnessed first-hand how the revitalisation of mātauranga through translocations can shape people and relationships, as much as the environment. We need improvements in our back-end systems to better help achieve these outcomes.' About the study This study was completed in partnership by researchers and contributors from: Cawthron Institute, Te Kura Pūtaiao Koiora School of Biological Sciences at Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha University of Canterbury, Zealandia Te Māra a Tāne, Kitson Consulting Limited, Hokonui Rūnanga, Te Kura Mātauranga Koiora School of Biological Sciences at Te Herenga Waka Victoria University of Wellington, New Zealand's Biological Heritage National Science Challenge, and The New Zealand Institute for Plant and Food Research Limited. The open-access article includes a practical 'next steps' table for policymakers and practitioners.
Scoop
a day ago
- General
- Scoop
New Research Urges Major Policy Reset For Moving Native Freshwater Species In Aotearoa
Cawthron Institute, Whakatū/Nelson — A landmark study just published in the New Zealand Journal of Ecology calls for a wholesale rethink of Aotearoa New Zealand's approach to authorising, managing, and monitoring how people move native freshwater fish and invertebrates. The paper, 'Rethinking freshwater translocation policy and practice in Aotearoa New Zealand,' reviews more than three decades of translocation projects and concludes that current systems are 'fragmentary, technically under-resourced, and often fall short of Te Tiriti o Waitangi commitments.' 'Translocations can support mahinga kai, rescue threatened species, and reconnect communities with awa,' said lead author Dr Aisling Rayne of Cawthron Institute, 'but without clear, cohesive policy and genuine mana whenua leadership, these efforts risk being ad-hoc and, at worst, harmful.' Three priority fixes The authors identify three shifts that would unlock the full ecological and cultural potential of freshwater translocations: Joined-up authorisation and governance – streamline permits and align the patchwork of legislation that currently spans conservation, fisheries, and regional planning. Inclusive decision-making – front-load translocation planning with mana whenua, local communities, and sector stakeholders so that who decides and how decisions are made are transparent and Treaty-honouring. Consistent monitoring and reporting – adopt nationwide standards for tracking ecological outcomes and cultural aspirations, so successes and lessons are shared rather than lost. Lessons from the field The paper features two case studies that illustrate both promise and pain points: Zealandia Te Māra a Tāne (Wellington): reintroductions of toitoi (common bully) and kākahi (freshwater mussel) showed how collaborative, Treaty-based projects can revitalise taonga species—but also how the technical know-how is often yet to be discovered. Hokonui Rūnanga (Murihiku / Southland): captive breeding and translocation of kanakana (pouched lamprey) demonstrates iwi-led leadership, yet highlights the maze of permits and biosecurity hurdles faced by community groups. 'These projects prove that culturally grounded science builds trust and public care,' said co-author Dr Joanne Clapcott (Cawthron Institute). 'What's missing is a national direction that makes this the norm, not the exception.' Looking ahead: climate change, biosecurity and new tech The paper argues that translocations will only grow in importance as climate pressures shift species' ranges and new tools—such as gamete cryobanking and broodstock surrogacy—become viable. It also warns that poorly planned 'mitigation' transfers can spread pests or distract from habitat protection. 'Freshwater translocations aren't a silver bullet,' said Dr Rayne, 'but with supportive policy and careful planning they can be a powerful part of a wider restoration toolkit.' Research partner quotes Riki Parata, Hokonui Rūnanga 'Hokonui Rūnanga welcomes the research findings, hoping they will guide iwi and their partners in the translocation of taonga species. The current framework restricts our ability to translocate our taonga, despite our tīpuna (ancestors) having done so for generations before us. This paper highlights numerous barriers and offers solutions. We are grateful for the research and support of Dr Aisling Rayne, Dr Joanne Clapcott, the Cawthron Institute, and the multiple contributors involved in bringing these findings to light. Our hope is to see new policies and processes established on the back of this research, integrating Mātauranga Māori and multiple scientific disciplines to enhance decision-making around translocations.' Dr Matthew Wylie, Plant and Food Research 'This work highlights opportunities to explore how emerging biotechnologies—such as gamete cryobanking and broodstock surrogacy—could be integrated with translocations in ways that uphold Indigenous rights and worldviews. These innovative spaces allow us to co-develop new tools and new knowledge to protect threatened freshwater taonga species in ways that honour Te Ao Māori.' Dr Danielle Shanahan, Zealandia 'Zealandia Te Māra a Tāne has witnessed first-hand how the revitalisation of mātauranga through translocations can shape people and relationships, as much as the environment. We need improvements in our back-end systems to better help achieve these outcomes.' About the study Citation: Rayne A, Beaven K, Clapcott J E, et al. (2025) Rethinking freshwater translocation policy and practice in Aotearoa New Zealand. New Zealand Journal of Ecology 49(1): 3602. DOI: 10.20417/nzjecol.49.3602 This study was completed in partnership by researchers and contributors from: Cawthron Institute, Te Kura Pūtaiao Koiora School of Biological Sciences at Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha University of Canterbury, Zealandia Te Māra a Tāne, Kitson Consulting Limited, Hokonui Rūnanga, Te Kura Mātauranga Koiora School of Biological Sciences at Te Herenga Waka Victoria University of Wellington, New Zealand's Biological Heritage National Science Challenge, and The New Zealand Institute for Plant and Food Research Limited. The open-access article includes a practical 'next steps' table for policymakers and practitioners.
Scoop
25-06-2025
- Politics
- Scoop
SociaLink Opposes Regulatory Standards Bill
SociaLink Tūhono Pāpori, the peak body for the community and social sector in the Western Bay of Plenty, has submitted strong opposition to the proposed Regulatory Standards Bill, urging Parliament to reject the Bill in full. 'This Bill is unnecessary, undermines democracy, erodes the Crown's obligations under Te Tiriti o Waitangi and prioritises individuals and property over the public good,' says Liz Davies, Chief Executive of SociaLink. The Bill proposes introducing a set of principles to evaluate all new and existing legislation, with a heavy focus on protecting individual liberties and property rights. However, SociaLink argues this would undermine public good legislation and exclude core values central to Aotearoa's identity — particularly the omission of any reference to Te Tiriti o Waitangi. 'There are already strong democratic systems in place to evaluate legislation,' she adds. 'Rather than overlaying an ideologically driven framework, we should be improving mechanisms like select committees, public consultation, and Treaty-based processes that reflect the diverse values of our society.' 'If for no other reason, the huge amount of work — and therefore money and time — this Bill would create to require all new and existing legislation to be reviewed is enough reason to reject the Bill,' Davies continues. 'Creating so much unnecessary work would seem to contradict the intention of the Minister of Regulation to encourage greater efficiency.' Davies also expressed concern over comments made by the Deputy Prime Minister, who has been publicly disparaging widely respected academics — including a New Zealander of the Year — because of differing views. 'I would expect any Minister of the Crown that disagrees with someone else's opinions to respond respectfully and professionally, as required by the Cabinet Manual,' she said. 'The Bill fails to achieve what it purports to achieve and does not protect communities, collective rights and the environment. This Bill should not proceed,' concludes Davies.
Scoop
02-05-2025
- Politics
- Scoop
Whanganui Iwi Leader Takes Place On Waitangi Tribunal
Article – Moana Ellis – Local Democracy Reporter Gerrard Albert has more than 20 years of experience in Treaty settlement negotiations, including a pivotal role in the Te Awa Tupua (Whanganui River) Settlement, and more than 30 years in natural resource management. Whanganui iwi leader Gerrard Albert has been appointed to the Waitangi Tribunal. The appointment was confirmed by Māori Development Minister Tama Potaka today. Albert, of Whanganui and Ngā Paerangi, is the former chair of Ngā Tāngata Tiaki o Whanganui, the post-settlement governance body for Te Awa Tupua. He has more than 20 years of experience in Treaty settlement negotiations, including a pivotal role in the Te Awa Tupua (Whanganui River) Settlement, and more than 30 years in natural resource management. The Minister said Albert's expertise in these areas would make him a valuable addition to the Tribunal. 'With his extensive experience in Treaty matters, Gerrard will bring invaluable knowledge and leadership to the Tribunal,' Potaka said. 'His appointment will ensure the Tribunal continues its important work in hearing and reporting Treaty claims in a timely manner.' The Minister said he was confident the appointment would support the progress of Treaty-based Māori-Crown relationships. 'Having a diverse range of expertise on the Tribunal is key to ensuring we continue to deliver effective and timely outcomes for Māori and the Crown.' Albert has been appointed for a three-year term to fill a vacancy.
