Conservation Panel Discussion: Bringing Past and Present Perspectives Together

Date: 10th September

Time: 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM

Location:  in the Activity Centre at the Hundertwasser Art Centre with Wairau Māori Art Gallery

Cost: $5 per person

Panel Discussion: Bringing Past and Present Perspectives Together

Join us for this insightful evening panel discussion exploring different perspectives on conservation and biodiversity.

Friedensreich Hundertwasser was deeply inspired by nature and believed that humans should aim to live in harmony with the laws of nature. In te ao Māori, Te Taiao refers to the natural world and the interconnectedness of people and nature. New Zealand has a strong tradition of protecting biodiversity, but at the same time there are numerous contemporary conservation challenges. This panel discussion brings together experts who will share their knowledge on conservation projects that they are working on. The audience will be invited to participate in the discussion.

Our Panellists:

• Richard Smart: NZ representative of the Hundertwasser Non-Profit Foundation.

Richard worked with Hundertwasser at his property in Kaurinui and has a wealth of knowledge about Hundertwasser’s approach to conservation.

• Sara Brill: Biosecurity Specialist at Northland Regional Council.

Sara is interested in pest plant partnerships, encouraging more people to see and take action on the threats of pest plants on our native biodiversity, both flora and fauna - especially in the light of predator free work being done.

• Hona Edwards: Kaitiaki Coordinator, Ngā Kaitiaki o Ngā Wai Māori.

Hona’s passion is te mana me te mauri o te wai.

To respect and protect the extraordinary gift, that is water.

To have people think about this gift, and how it sustains all life forms.

To have people think about how powerful this gift is, yet so very fragile.

• Mike Urlich: Conservationist with Weed Action Native Habitat Restoration Trust.

Mike is passionate about weed action and works on different conservation projects around the region.

• Catherine Hamilton: Technical Principal Landscape Architect, WSP NZ.

Catherine has more than 30 years of experience in practice, she works across all scales of landscape design and planning to bring a systems-based approach to solutions. She is interested in Sponge Cities, an approach underpinned by ancient wisdom and indigenous practices.

Why Attend?

• Engage in Thoughtful Dialogue:

Share your passions about the environment and participate in a meaningful conversation about connecting with and being inspired by nature.

• Gain Valuable Insights:

Learn about past and present conservation challenges and successes.

• Contribute to the Conversation:

Bring your questions, thoughts and ideas to explore how we can harmonise with nature and create a sustainable future together.

We look forward to an evening of enriching discussion and community engagement.