23 July 2004

Conservation needs you!

The Department of Conservation (DOC) and the Auckland University of Technology (AUT) are co-hosting a community conservation expo to encourage people to get involved in conservation.

The day-long event will feature stalls and displays that showcase the exciting work that Auckland's community conservation trusts and societies do to help care for our natural and historic heritage in places such as Rangitoto, Motutapu and Motuihe islands, and Stony Batter on Waiheke Island.

It will be held during Conservation Week on Tuesday 3 August from 9.00am to 7.00pm at the entrance to the AUT library in the Hikuwai Plaza off Wellesley Street in central Auckland.

DOC community relations officer Bill Trusewich said the day would celebrate the contribution many individuals and groups make to looking after and restoring our heritage in the Auckland Region.

"We also want to highlight what conservation can offer people such as beautiful places to visit and enjoy, education and fitness opportunities, a source of pride and connection, as well as the volunteer opportunities and career possibilities it offers to people of all ages."

An AUT display will highlight the exciting career options available in the environment and the management of New Zealand's natural resources, and provide information on the study options for getting into conservation work.

Members of the public will have a chance to talk to trustees and DOC staff about how they can become involved by volunteering or offering support in some way, as well as listen to presentations by AUT senior lecturers and DOC staff.

Tertiary students and university staff are especially welcome to come and explore new ways to use their skills and knowledge. To top it off, there will be hourly spot prizes.

AUT is pleased to be able to support the work by DOC and environmental trusts in the Auckland region by hosting these groups on its city campus. AUT has a valuable role to play in New Zealand conservation through the wide range of courses it offers that reflect key aspects of our unique environment and the importance of conserving New Zealand's natural resources.

Conservation with Communities is the focus of DOC's nationwide activities for Conservation Week this year, which runs from 2-8 August. As New Zealanders we are connected to our special landscapes, historic places and native plants and animals. They need to be protected and nurtured not only by DOC but by everyone.

ENDS

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