The Banks Peninsula Conservation Trust was formed in 2001 operating successfully for more than eight years. It is a non-profit organisation that works with landowners and agencies to promote the conservation and enhancement of indigenous biodiversity and sustainable land management on Banks Peninsula.

Unique Banks Peninsula

Banks Peninsula, or Te Pātaka o Rākaihautū , is a unique landscape of about 1000km2 located south-east of Christchurch in the South Island of New Zealand. The Peninsula is distinctive because of its volcanic history, resulting in a myriad of coastal landscapes, sea-cliffs and rocky outcrops. Many centuries of human land use have also shaped the modified landscapes of today.

Our vision

To create an environment in which the community value, protect and care for the biodiversity, landscapes and character of Banks Peninsula

Community-based conservation Trust

The Banks Peninsula Conservation Trust developed as a community re-sponse to the Banks Peninsula district planning process, with the aim to move away from rules and regulations towards voluntary methods of conserv-ing natural areas. The Trust became a covenanting authority under Section 77(1) of the Reserves Act 1997 by the Conservation Minister in May 2003. This makes the trust the first non-government organisation to place covenants onto land titles since the QEII Trust began 30 years ago. The Trust has grown steadily since its early inception, and now has five part-time staff. However the trust still relies strongly on volunteers to achieve its goals.

The future

The Trust appreciates and relies on community support and the assistance of volunteers. The Trust will focus on strengthening its support with the many communities that value Banks Peninsula. This support comes from a wide base including all rural people, Maori, and the many generations of farming families and landowners. Future supporters could also include visitors and tourists who appreciate the Peninsula's striking landscapes.

Banks Peninsula Conservation Trust is an organisation that has a vision for the future, and a strong commitment to protect indigenous biodiversity and encourage sustainable land management on Banks Peninsula. We welcome any interest and support in our activities.