NZPAMG is a network of parks managers who come together on a regular basis to progress best practice management and advocacy of our parks and open spaces. This group sits under the NZRA umbrella, and is coordinated by Geoff Canham.

There are currently 24 member organisations, mainly local authorities, and some professional consultancies. The group also has several key supporters (Treescape, DLA Piper, Asplundh). There is also a sub-group restricted to Heads of Departments. It is not often professionals in these roles are all in the same room together, so this has been very constructive.

The latest meeting of NZPAMG is worth sharing. In an ambitious initiative to revitalise trans-Tasman parks agency relationships, the group met in Sydney on 26-29 July. This July seminar was generously hosted by Parks Australia and the Sydney Harbour Federation Trust, along with sponsorship from Treescape and TRC Tourism. Over 35 people attended from NZ and Australian parks agencies. One of the very memorable highlights was the glamping on Cockatoo Island in the middle of Sydney Harbour. Key theme presentations and discussions focussed on managing the eco-tourism boom, balancing tourism growth and outdoor recreation, charging mechanisms, innovation and partnerships, and the role of parks in state and national economies. Recognition of rapid change within the sector was a common theme, and building resilience was key to the long term sustainability of parks agencies. Improving staff engagement, and providing development opportunities such as staff exchanges , were mechanisms that could be implemented. There was agreement that a formal trans-Tasman agreement (eg MOU) between the Parks Managers and TAPAF (the Australian Tourism and Protected Areas Forum) would be beneficial to both countries. These are constructive steps towards picking up where the disbanded Parks Forum left off several years ago.

The next meeting of the group is on 7 November in New Plymouth, preceeding the NZRA National conference. Contact Geoff Canham if you are interested in joining the group (email Geoff@nzrecreation.org.nz).

Mark Bowater

NZRA Chair

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