A major national gathering aimed at protecting Aotearoa’s most vulnerable species is bringing together iwi, rangatahi, scientists and community leaders at a critical time for the environment.
The Endangered Species National Hui 2026, co-chaired by Tāwera Nikau, is being held as concern grows over the state of native biodiversity, with many taonga species facing increasing threats from habitat loss, climate change and reduced environmental protections.
The hui is designed to create a space where mātauranga Māori, science, innovation and grassroots action come together, with participants sharing knowledge, strategies and solutions to strengthen conservation efforts across the motu.
Organisers say the strength of the hui lies in its diversity, uniting voices from iwi-led restoration projects, rangatahi working on the frontlines, and researchers developing new tools to protect ecosystems.
The timing is seen as critical, with environmental protections under pressure and conservation funding stretched, raising concerns about the long-term future of native species.
For many attending, the hui represents an opportunity to reset priorities and reinforce the role of iwi and communities as kaitiaki, leading efforts to safeguard biodiversity.
Stories of resilience and action are expected to be central, highlighting successful initiatives already making a difference on the ground and inspiring others to take similar approaches.
Organisers hope participants will leave with renewed momentum, practical ideas and stronger connections that can be carried back into their own rohe.
There is also a clear focus on what comes next, with the hui intended to feed into national conversations around environmental policy while strengthening collaboration between groups working to protect taonga species.
Momentum generated is expected to support both advocacy at a national level and continued on-the-ground work in communities, ensuring efforts are sustained beyond the event itself.
Held on Tainui whenua, the hui also reinforces the connection between people and place, grounding discussions in whakapapa and responsibility to the natural world.
Protecting taonga species is not a future goal, it is a responsibility that sits with us right now.
As pressures mount on Aotearoa’s environment, organisers say collective action and shared leadership will be key to ensuring native species not only survive, but thrive for generations to come.
