Grant Robertson
MP for Wellington Central

19 April 2009 Media Statement

Council must not forget sanctuary’s values and history

The Wellington City Council must remember the underlying values of the Karori Wildlife Sanctuary in restructuring its governance arrangements, Grant Robertson, Labour MP for Wellington Central said today.

“The Sanctuary is a landmark 500 year project to restore a corner of Wellington to its pre-human contact state. It is a project that has led the way in conservation and recovery of native flora and fauna on mainland New Zealand. Protecting these ideals must be the key focus of any governance arrangements,” Grant Robertson said.

Grant Robertson was reacting to news that the Wellington City Council intends to make changes to the Board of the Sanctuary including an increase in Council appointees and more emphasis on the commercial skills of members. At the moment the nine member board has two Council appointed members.

“I would hate to think that the changes are the beginning of a move to bring the Sanctuary under the control of the Council. This would, in my view, be disastrous for the long term health of the project. It would run the risk of being subject to political whim and horse-trading. The Sanctuary project should be able to transcend politics.”

“The cost overruns on the visitor centre project are unfortunate, but like many such situations there is no one cause or person to blame. Of course the Board needs to have people who have good financial skills, but those with a passion for the conservation values of the Sanctuary need to be part of the picture as well”.

“Moreover, the Sanctuary is a true grassroots community initiative, with a strong and active group of volunteers and members. Those people must be able to play a part in the future of governance of the Sanctuary.”

ENDS

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