1999 WAIKATO CONSERVATION BOARD APPOINTMENTS

Conservation Minister Nick Smith today announced appointments to the Waikato Conservation Board with effect from 1 September 1999.

"Conservation boards have a unique role to play within the public conservation sector. They are independent bodies providing for important interaction between the community and the Department of Conservation on local conservation issues."

"I am very pleased to be appointing people who I believe will make a positive contribution to the Waikato Conservation Board's work. These people bring a diversity of new skills which will both complement those already represented on the board, and have relevance to the issues the board will face in the immediate future."

"The contributions of outgoing members are appreciated and will be missed. However, changes in board membership are essential in ensuring others get a chance to have some input into the decision-making process on local conservation issues. The new board has a healthy mix of new blood as well as continuity from experienced members."

1999 Appointments:
Alice Anderson of Paeroa is the environmental officer for the Hauraki Maori Trust Board. Alice is widely involved in the community including iwi interests, youth, law, and environment. She brings to the board a valuable balance of academic knowledge and practical experience.

Ross Bailey of Whangamata is a retired education professional. He has an excellent knowledge of the Waikato and further afield through his strong interests in natural history, conservation, tramping, outdoor education, and community service.

Angela Pope of Waitomo is involved in the tourism and hospitality industry. She brings to the board experience in a variety of areas including iwi concerns, conservation, tourism, and their interaction. She complements her knowledge of community issues with academic qualifications.

Continuing members:
Megan Balks, university lecturer, Hamilton
Bev Clarkson, scientist, Hamilton
Graeme Kilgour, semi-retired, Rotorua
Harold Maniapoto, managing director, Kihikihi
Hori te Awa, manager ? iwi trust, Huntly
Sandra Goodwin, dairy farmer, Tirau
Ron McGough (co-opted member), semi-retired, Mangakino
ENDS