Environmental organisations are calling on New Zealanders to stand together in defence of the country’s natural heritage, launching a nationwide March for Nature campaign in response to growing concern over proposed changes to conservation laws and increased pressure on protected public land.
The campaign, led by Greenpeace Aotearoa and Forest & Bird, will culminate in a major public march in Auckland on 19 September, bringing together conservation groups, iwi, community organisations and supporters who want stronger protection for Aotearoa’s native forests, wildlife and public conservation estate.
Organisers say the march comes at a pivotal time, with Parliament considering reforms to conservation legislation and wider debate continuing over mining, infrastructure development and the future management of protected land.
Campaign organisers argue that New Zealand’s unique biodiversity faces increasing pressure from habitat loss, invasive species, climate change and development, making stronger conservation protections more important than ever.
The campaign calls on the Government to strengthen environmental safeguards, protect public conservation land from inappropriate development and ensure future decision-making places biodiversity and ecosystem health at its centre.
For Māori, the kaupapa extends beyond environmental protection alone. Many iwi and hapū regard the protection of whenua, ngahere, awa and moana as an expression of kaitiakitanga, recognising the intergenerational responsibility to safeguard taonga species and ecosystems for future generations.
Environmental groups say conserving biodiversity is closely connected to protecting cultural identity, customary practices and the health of natural environments that sustain communities throughout Aotearoa.
The launch of the March for Nature follows recent public debate over proposed amendments to conservation legislation, with environmental organisations expressing concern that some changes could weaken existing protections for public land and native species.
Supporters of the campaign say New Zealand has built an international reputation on its natural environment and unique biodiversity, and argue that protecting these assets should remain a national priority.
The organisers are encouraging people from across the country to participate in the September march, describing it as an opportunity for New Zealanders to demonstrate their support for stronger conservation policies and long-term environmental stewardship.
The campaign also aims to raise awareness of the importance of healthy ecosystems in addressing climate change, protecting freshwater, supporting native wildlife and maintaining the cultural and recreational values of public conservation land.
As debate over the future of New Zealand’s conservation estate continues, the March for Nature is expected to become one of the largest public environmental demonstrations of the year, bringing together people who believe protecting nature is fundamental to the wellbeing of current and future generations.
#RadioWaatea #WaateaNews #MarchForNature #Conservation #ForestAndBird #Greenpeace #Kaitiakitanga #Whenua #Biodiversity #ProtectNature #Environment #ClimateAction #TeAoMāori #Aotearoa #SEO
