Canterbury Aoraki Conservation Board members

Distinguished Professor Philip Hulme of Christchurch (Chairperson)

Appointment term: 1 July 2021 to 30 June 2027

DP Hulme is an experienced biosecurity academic.  He has served on Biosecurity Advisory Committees for the UK and New Zealand governments, as well as Environment Canterbury.  In 2023, the Minister of Conservation appointed him as a Director of the QEII National Trust.  DP Hulme has an excellent understanding of data and statistics, the ability to make evidence-based decisions, knowledge of the research landscape that supports conservation activities in New Zealand, and a sound understanding of governance best practice.

Courtney Bennett of Christchurch (Deputy Chairperson)

Appointment term: 1 July 2022 to 30 June 2025

Courtney’s background is in environmental and strategic planning. She runs a planning consultancy that specialises in policy and plan-writing, community engagement, and research; and has previously worked on national park-related projects in a technical capacity. Courtney has also published several academic articles focusing on best practice mana whenua engagement methodologies, and incorporating Māori worldviews and mātauranga into planning processes.

Khan Adam of Temuka

Appointment term; 6 August 2025 to 30 June 2026

Khan is recommended for appointment for his significant outdoor recreation interests; this aspect is currently underrepresented on the existing board. He also brings representation from the southern end of the district. He has experience in pest control and conservation practices. 

Rachael Evans of Christchurch

Appointment term: 1 July 2023 to 30 June 2026

Rachael (Ngāti Tama and Ngāti Pamoana) is a lecturer in law at Canterbury University.  She is a former practicing lawyer specialising in Treaty right and water resource management government law.  Ms Evans has considerable knowledge about Te Ao Māori and conservation, tikanga and the environment.

Dr Roslyn Kerr

Appointment term; 6 August 2025 to 30 June 2028

Roslyn has extensive experience in parks and recreation and tourism management. These skills will enhance the Board's work in the ongoing Aoraki Mount Cook national park management plan review.

Michael McMillan of North Temuka 

Appointment term: 1 July 2020 to 30 June 2026

Michael (Rapuwai, Waitaha, Kāti Mamoe, Ngāi Tahu) is a nominee by Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu and is the current Deputy Chair of the Board. Notable kaupapa he has led on the Board include the Aoraki Mt Cook National Park review/consultation; commercial eeling in the McKenzie county lakes through MPI quota; Rangitata conservation lands and encroachment on the river; and developments at Kura Tawhiti.

Jana Newman of Christchurch

Appointment term: 1 November 2024 to 30 June 2027

Jana has a background in conservation, Antarctic science, policy and diplomacy, including leading New Zealand’s engagement in the Antarctic Treaty System. She has broad experience as a senior leader in government agencies working with legislation, policy, strategy and engagement. 

Rachel Robilliard of Southbridge

Appointment term: 1 July 2019 to 30 June 2026

Rachel (Ngāi Tahu, Ngāi Te Ruahikihiki, and Te Taumutu Rūnanga) was nominated by Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu. She has a legal background with a focus on environmental, planning and natural resources law. She has experience advising on legal and compliance requirements for a range of environmental and resource management matters. She is also a member of the Kaitiakitanga Portfolio for Te Taumutu Rūnanga.

Sara Severinsen 

Appointment term: 1 November 2024 to 30 June 2027

Sara was nominated by Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu and has experience in land, water, and species conservation, working between mana whenua and the Department of Conservation.  She also has resource management framework and crown pastoral administration experience.

Puāwai Swindells-Wallace of Christchurch

Appointment term; 6 August 2025 to 30 June 2026

Nominated by Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu. Puāwai has experience in the practice of Mātauranga Māori and Te Ao Māori. Raised on the Marae, she brings exercised kaitiaki and rangatira experience from Whenua and Tangata Whenua in Waitaha/Canterbury. Her experience of protocol, formalities and practices stem from Mātauranga-a-Iwi, Mātauranga-a-hapū from across Waitaha, Te Waipounamu and Te Ika-a-Māui. Ms Swindells-Wallace has worked as a public servant for over 12 years, the last four spent working for Department of Corrections at Arohata and Christchurch Women’s Prison.

Richard Suggate of Diamond Harbour

Appointment term 1 July 2022 to 30 June 2028

After a 30 year career working for Te Papa Atawhai (Department of Conservation) across Canterbury and  other locations, Richard brings to the Board a wide understanding of biodiversity, recreation and conservation operations. During his career, he established relationships with Canterbury papatipu rūnanga and many local groups. Richard is currently a member of a number of conservation, recreation and community organisations including co-chairing the Rod Donald Banks Peninsula Trust. 

Brenden Winder of Christchurch

Appointment term: 1 July 2023 to 30 June 2026

Brenden (Ngāi Irakehu, Tūwharetoa) has a varied background in maritime matters, land and vegetation fire management, emergency management and tourism. He provides an understanding of working with government, local government, and non-government agencies.  Brenden also strengthens the Māori representation on the Board.