Bay of Plenty conservation appointments announced
Date: 29 August 2008
Source: Office of the Minister of Conservation
Conservation Minister Steve Chadwick today announced this year's appointments to the Bay of Plenty Conservation Board.
"I am pleased to appoint Roger Pikia and Maureen Burgess to the board and reappoint Hera Smith and Margriet Theron," Steve Chadwick said.
"The new makeup of the board represents a wide range of local communities in the Bay of Plenty and will give sound advice to the Department of Conservation (DOC) on its policy and directions. Conservation boards play a vital role in giving independent advice on local issues and are a way for local communities to be a part of conservation decisions."
Conservation boards provide links between the community and DOC, and represent the public interest in the department's work and conservation in general.
Roger Pikia is a National Maori Strategist for AgResearch Ltd and has 15 years experience as a dairy and sheep and beef farmer, and has experience as a trustee, director and chairman. Roger has affiliations to Tainui (Ngati Hikairo) and Te Arawa (Ngati Tahu/Ngati Whaoa).
Maureen Burgess has been a member and chairperson of many community trusts and boards. Maureen is currently a committee member of the Te Puke branch of Forest and Bird and is a member of the Ornithological Society of NZ. Maureen is a councillor at Western Bay of Plenty District Council and is an elected representative for Te Puke ward.
"I am sure that the incoming members will add valuable experience and skills to this highly competent and committed board, and I thank them for their willingness to take up this important conservation role."
Ms Chadwick thanked retiring board members Laurence Tamati and Neil Clarke for their efforts and commitment during their time on the board. Alf McCausland resigned from the Board in March and Ms Chadwick wished him well for the future.