Fonterra partnership
The Department of Conservation and Fonterra are working together to improve the natural habitats of five key waterways in significant dairying regions around New Zealand.
Lake Ellesmere/Te Waihora in Canterbury
Quality waterways are pivotal to maintaining the healthy environments which protect native wildlife and also underpin a sustainable dairy industry.
The Minister of Conservation Hon Dr Nick Smith and Fonterra Board Director John Monaghan officially launched the partnership on 7 March 2013 at Lake Areare in the Waikato. Fonterra and DOC are sharing joint co-ordination of a $20 million community investment over 10 years.
The partnership with Fonterra means DOC can deliver additional conservation gains in some of New Zealand’s most sensitive catchments. Initially, Fonterra and DOC are working with local communities to make a difference to the water quality at five sensitive catchments:
- Kaipara Harbour
- Firth of Thames
- Waikato Peat Lakes
- Te Waihora-Lake Ellesmere
- Awarua-Waituna
A joint steering group has been established to collaboratively develop plans with communities for these areas.
As the expert in conservation and biodiversity, DOC is working with Fonterra, local communities and farmers in activities like enhancing riparian areas and wetlands, managing pests and weeds, and making sure that the right habitats are in place around farms to enhance biodiversity and encourage native fish and birds.
Fonterra Managing Director and DOC Director General after signing the agreement
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