Science and Innovation Minister Steven Joyce said the challenge spans a wide range of scientific disciplines and will include researchers from nearly all NZ’s relevant research institutions.
The challenge will be hosted by the Crown research institute Landcare Research. It includes researchers from the other six Crown research institutes, and all eight NZ universities.
It also draws on the research expertise of Te Papa Tongarewa, the Department of Conservation, the Ministry for Primary Industries, regional councils, and Ngai Tahu.
“NZ’s future is based on its biological heritage – our economy, lifestyle, and sense of identity are all underpinned by our distinctive landscapes and healthy natural and production ecosystems,” Joyce said.
“This challenge will ensure that New Zealanders have the knowledge, tools, and technologies to better protect our primary production-based economy, precious native flora and fauna, and unique environments for future generations.”
The challenge integrates research in biodiversity and biosecurity, research areas that have traditionally been addressed separately, but which are inter-dependent.
“The research proposal developed by the challenge consortium is a fine example of how the challenge process has brought together a diverse range of researchers to focus on the big science-based issues facing the country. In this case research will protect and enhance the natural and managed ecosystems fundamental to New Zealanders’ economy and wellbeing.”
Research into the National Science Challenge, NZ’s Biological Heritage – Nga Koiora Tuku Iho, will ensure that we:
- Understand New Zealand’s native and introduced biodiversity, and have real-time bioheritage information to inform management decisions
- Support natural resource management with understanding of the links between biodiversity, ecosystems, matauranga Maori, and environmental and economic pressures
- Have diverse and vibrant natural and production ecosystems that support long-term sustainability
- Have appropriate tools to effectively monitor and evaluate biosecurity and biodiversity status and trends, and
- Build social partnerships as the basis of an enduring social licence to apply new management methodologies, tools, technologies, and solutions.
