We're committed to respecting information and keeping it safe. We have systems, policies and governance in place to control how we collect, manage and use information.
Our work includes:
- managing a network of huts and tracks
- managing historic properties
- science and research
- pest control
- compliance and law enforcement.
We may need to gather, collect, use and share information for the purpose to detect or investigate potential:
- criminal offending like illegal harvest, wildlife smuggling, poaching, assault or vandalism
- regulatory non-compliance such as not meeting the requirements of a permit or certificate
- threats to the physical security of staff
- threats to the security of information, places or operations such as unauthorised entry, interference with DOC equipment or operations.
We collect, use and share information appropriately, and meet our obligations under the:
- Privacy Act 2020
- Search and Surveillance Act 2012
- Bill of Rights Act 1990
- The standard of integrity and conduct
- Public Services Commission's Information Gathering and Public Trust model standards
- relevant DOC policies and procedures.
Our contractors and any other third parties engaged by us must meet these same obligations.
Collecting, using and sharing information
We collect information from a variety of sources including:
- directly from people
- other agencies and entities
- publicly available sources, including online sources
- technical devices, including camera surveillance, for the purposes of biodiversity protection, conservation management and maintenance of the law.
We use the information we hold to:
- decide whether to investigate a complaint or a threat
- investigate non-compliance or prosecute a criminal offence
- undertake protective security and risk assessment activities
- support other state sector agencies' activities.
We may also use your information to improve our services. We do this by:
- Analysing general patterns and trends
- Analysing visitor numbers, activities and how DOC assets are used.
We may share information with NZ Police and other government organisations. This will only be done when required by law or to properly carry out our functions. For example:
- to assist with the investigation of a criminal offence
- to ensure the health and safety of our staff, partners, contractors and volunteers.
Information is shared lawfully under legislation and information-sharing agreements.
Contact us
If you have any questions or concerns, you can contact DOC's Privacy team at privacy@doc.govt.nz