37251 (2024). Hon Julie Anne Genter to the Minister of Conservation

37251 (2024). Hon Julie Anne Genter to the Minister of Conservation: What, if any, is the species programmes that will be worked on the Chatham Islands in 2024/25 and 2025/26 to protect the biodiversity of the islands?

Hon Tama Potaka: The Department of Conservation advises that all existing species programmes on the Chatham Islands will continue to be worked on in 2024/25. A list of these programmes is attached and includes work on: • 16 bird species • 18 plant species • 3 invertebrate species The species work undertaken on the island is focussed on species with the highest threat classification and uniqueness and this work will continue to be prioritised by the Department in future years. The Department is not able to advise on budgets for future years. However, if the same or similar budget is made available, then the priority programmes identified for 2024/25 will continue to be delivered.