The Department of Conservation's Strategic Direction
New Zealanders want their natural and historical heritage conserved.
In order to foster this commitment to conservation, people must see there is value in it for itself, and for people's enjoyment and benefit, now and for future generations.
The overarching purpose of the Department is to increase the value that New Zealanders attribute to conservation.
This leads to enhanced care of New Zealand's unique heritage for people to benefit from and enjoy.
To do this:
- The department will seek to entrench conservation as an essential part of the sustainable social and economic future of New Zealand.
- The department will be recognised as an effective manager of the lands, waters, species, historic places, and roles entrusted to it.
- The department will lead, guide, and facilitate conservation gains throughout New Zealand, wherever conservation is most needed.
- The department will weigh society's values, nature's inherent qualities, and scientific criteria in its decision-making.
- The department will actively promote outdoor recreation for New Zealanders, especially through fostering recreation, use, and enjoyment on conservation land.