Mountains to Sea Conservation Trust (MTSCT)
Whitebait Connection (WBC) Programme
2011/12 National Department of Conservation Work-plan Report - DRAFT
Written and Compiled by MTSCT
WBC National Coordinators Kim Jones and Nicki Wakefield
+MTSCT – DoC 2011-2012 National Workplans Report - DRAFT
1
Executive Summary
The purpose of this report is to highlight the national contract between the Department of
Conservation (DoC) and the Mountains to Sea Conservation Trust (MTSCT) for the financial
year 2011/2012, and report on the outcomes and future direction of the programme.
The WBC Programme assists DoC in meeting its statutory responsibilities for freshwater
conservation, outlined in the 1987 Conservation Act, in terms of;





land management
preservation
advocacy
promotion of benefits to future generations
publication and dissemination of educational material relating to freshwater
conservation
And in a less quantifiable way, assists the department in administering the Wildlife Act 1953
and the Reserves Act 1977 in terms of;









fostering and promoting the preservation of the natural character of the coastal
environment and the margins of lakes and rivers, and preserve public access to the
coast, offshore islands, lakeshores and riverbanks
protecting freshwater natural heritage
protecting nationally important freshwater ecosystems and sites
safeguarding the natural ecological character of freshwater ecosystems and habitats
protecting freshwater species and stocks
managing alien invasives
provide for recreational use of freshwater ecosystems and species
providing access and recreational facilities, subject to protection of freshwater
values
harvest and stock management
To help demonstrate this in a tangible and measureable way, this report highlights the way
in which different WBC areas (seeded through DoC head office funding) have achieved
conservation and advocacy outcomes. DoC staff from around the country can testify to the
effective relationship between WBC and DoC in achieving similar freshwater goals as
outlined in the testimonials below.
+MTSCT – DoC 2011-2012 National Workplans Report - DRAFT
2
“The Kaitaia Area Office greatly values the partnership that exists between DOC and
WBC. We have seen an increase in understanding and commitment to freshwater
conservation in the Far North, resulting from participation in the WBC programme.
Additionally, the support and mentoring offered by WBC to our staff, enabling them
to deliver the programme themselves, has been invaluable. The WBC team are
committed, dedicated and professional. They have assisted us to create an annual
high profile freshwater educational event, and develop culturally appropriate
freshwater initiatives to support and encourage iwi in the Far North to become more
involved in freshwater conservation, including a marae based WBC wananga. We
look forward to continuing to work collaboratively with WBC to further increase the
profile of freshwater issues, as well as promote greater engagement in freshwater
conservation amongst the Far North communities”.
- Carolyn Smith
Community Relations Programme Manager and Acting Area Manager
Kaitaia Area Office
“We are very fortunate to have the cooperation of WBC to deliver their programme
within our community and schools. The input and knowledge shared and the
professionalism from this team is second to none.This team has been involved in some
great work which includes a community snorkel day held at Kai Iwi Lakes where
approximately 100 or more people engaged in an awesome learning experience that
also allowed us (KCAO) staff to interact with other agencies and stakeholders which is
an immeasurable benefit for us. Also they have delivered the Dune Lakes Education
programme to Aranga School and about to deliver the same to Kaihu Valley School.
We trust that the team’s programmes endeavour to continue for the benefit of our
youth as they are the Kaitiaki and leaders of the future. The continuing participation
of MTSCT and the WBC educational programme is essential to the future wellbeing of
our environment and ecosystems. Let’s leave something worthwhile for our children
to enjoy! Thank-you for your time and if you have any further questions please do not
hesitate to contact me on (09) 439 3463”.
- Darren Jones
Community Relations Ranger
Kauri Coast Area Office
This report outlines the ways in which the WBC helps DoC to achieve outcomes by reporting
back on the 2011/2012 workplans, as well as other Whitebait Connection activities. MTSCT
is committed to the continuation and development of the WBC programme in partnership
with DoC. This report also outlines the programmes future directions and a proposal for
ongoing funding partnership between the Department of Conservation and the Whitebait
Connection Programme.
+MTSCT – DoC 2011-2012 National Workplans Report - DRAFT
3
Table of Contents
Executive Summary
2-3
Table of Contents
4
WBC Programme Summary
WBC History and Current Structure
MTSCT Outline
Services
Alignment with DoC Education Strategy
Documented Success Stories
5
5-7
8
9
9
10
2011/2012 WBC National Workplan
Goal
Project activities or outputs
Project Outcomes
Budget
11
11
11
11
12
2011/2012 WBC Area Workplans
Far North
Gisborne
Nelson
Canterbury
Budget
13
13-14
15-16
17-18
19-21
22
WBC Strategic Direction
23
Ongoing Partnership Proposal
24
2012/2013 National Coordination Budget Proposal
26
Appendix
2011/2012 Media Articles
WBC Region Structure Diagrams
Proposed National Coordination WBC Workplan
27
28
29-31
+MTSCT – DoC 2011-2012 National Workplans Report - DRAFT
4
Whitebait Connection Programme Summary
The Whitebait Connection is a well established education programme that offers unique
learning experiences for schools and their communities in their local freshwater
environments. These experiences inspire and link communities within catchments around
New Zealand, promoting a passion for healthy freshwater ecosystems and an active
involvement in catchment restoration. The programme focuses on schools as a focal point
for the community to come together and see the future of freshwater through the eyes of
their children, thereby motivating meaningful learning and long-term behaviour change in
both today’s and tomorrow’s generations.
The Concept...
WBC focuses on the living things, highlighting the connections between land and sea and
their inter-dependence. The programme can be run anywhere in New Zealand,
independently or in conjunction with similar programmes. Its concept of showing people
what is in their own backyard, learning why freshwater health is important, involving them
in maintaining it, supporting ongoing learning and care, promoting cultural values and
demonstrating connections to the Drains to Harbour and Experiencing Marine Reserves
programmes make it unique within New Zealand.
Engaging school students, teachers, parents and other community members in local
freshwater management projects, supports understanding of the life-sustaining capacity
and critical place of freshwater ecosystems. Participants learn about freshwater values,
connections within catchments including the lifecycle of and threats to Whitebait and how
to monitor and measure freshwater health. People are involved in ecologically-based,
practical enquiry learning about streams, rivers, lakes, wetlands and catchments.
Restorative action is inspired, facilitated and supported.
Whitebait Connection History
The Whitebait Connection programme was developed in Northland in 2001 by Stefan Seitzer
and Vince Kerr. The Northland based, Mountains to Sea Conservation Trust was formed in
2002 as a charitable umbrella and support organisation for both the WBC programme and
also the Experiencing Marine Reserves (EMR) programme in 2002. The Whitebait
Connection formed a national partnership with the Department of Conservation in 2004 and
maintains funding relationships with local and regional government, DoC area offices, other
charitable trusts and community groups.
+MTSCT – DoC 2011-2012 National Workplans Report - DRAFT
5
Today... Since it's Northland beginnings in 2000 the programme has grown to be active in
6 regions with 6 fully endorsed coordinators, and 5 other coordinators in the process of
becoming endorsed.
WBC History of success since its establishment in 2000. Below are some of the
highlights as of June 2012...
New Zealanders have participated in the Whitebait Connection Programme
 1137 schools were engaged
 32,800 native seedlings had been planted
 15 hectares of riparian margins had been restored.
 20 cubic meters of riparian rubbish had been removed.
 WBC has had 55 media hits.
 48,820 hours of volunteer time had been contributed.
 Capacity has been built in 13 DoC offices.
(this is conservative as some items have not been measured by some areas)

+MTSCT – DoC 2011-2012 National Workplans Report - DRAFT
6
Whitebait Connection – Current Structure
WBC National Coordinator - Kim Jones is an experienced coordinator of the
trusts’ programmes, starting in 2003 volunteering with EMR. Kim is the cofounder of Whangarei's Drains to Harbour (DTH) stormwater awareness
campaign and Mangrove Discovery Programme (MDP). Kim has been
delivering EMR since 2005, and WBC since 2007, becoming the National
Coordinator in March, 2008. She achieved her Open Water SCUBA Diving
certification and surf lifesaving bronze star and medallion whilst at high
school. She is a graduate of the Diploma in Environmental Management and
Conservation at Northland Polytechnic. She received the Golden Bay Cement
student scholarship in 2005 in recognition of her achievements, which has
helped fund her education and provided her with experience working within
the environmental management industry. She has a National Certificate in Business
Administration and Computing. Kim is a qualified snorkel instructor and MTSCT Delivery
Team Leader. Kim was a selected member of the youth delegates at the 2006 Digital Earth
symposium on sustainability and is also a New Zealand Association for Environmental
Education, Northland Branch committee member. Kim has recently achieved her
Divemaster certification and is current chairperson of the Whangarei Harbour Marine
Reserve Advisory Committee.
Kim is currently on maternity leave until September 17, 2012.
Acting National Coordinator - Nicki Wakefield (Ngapuhi, Te Arawa, Ngai
Tahu) started with the MTSCT in 2008 after completing her Bachelor of
Science in Biology at Waikato Univerisity. Before becoming a coordinator of
the MTSCT programmes, Nicki worked on ecological genetic research
projects, and riparian restoration projects in the Waikato. Nicki has been
coordinating the Trust's programmes in Northland and Auckland since 2008
and has been a Trustee since 2009. Nicki is a qualified snorkel instructor and
Coastguard Operational Crew Member. Nicki is also highly involved in hapu
based environmental management and youth development projects
throughout Whangarei.
The WBC National Coordination team works closely with MTSCT Trustees, EMR National
Coordinator Samara Nicholas, and programme coordinators resulting in a well supported,
professional network which provides ongoing development of the Trust's programmes.
For details on regional organisations and structures see appendix I: WBC Region Structure
Diagrams
+MTSCT – DoC 2011-2012 National Workplans Report - DRAFT
7
MTSCT Outline
The Trust sees education as a vital part of society and central to all environmental
restoration. Our work involves providing dynamic experiential education programmes that
engage schools and communities in conservation. We aim to support communities in
achieving their goals in environmental restoration and conservation. Thanks to a partnership
formed in 2004 with the Department of Conservation, both the WBC and EMR programmes
have been available nationally through the provision of a National Programme Coordinator
and seed funding from DoC head office. EMR has also been successful in applications for
other national development funds through the Tindall Foundation.
In addition to EMR & WBC in Northland we have developed a range of programmes,
resources and services such as community guided snorkel days, community events for
Seaweek & Conservation week, DVD’s, the MarineNZ website, community nursery
education programme (He Kakano), and the Drains to Harbour and Mangrove Discovery
programmes.
The continued development of the Mountains to Sea Conservation Trust brings together an
extensive array of professional skills and diverse capabilities. Within our group of 6 trustees
there is a balance of youth and experience, scientific, social scientific and educational
accomplishment. Trustees include our Chairperson, marine biologist and photographer Dr
Roger Grace, a public relations specialist Sioux Campbell, biologist and marine conservation
campaigner Vince Kerr, social entrepreneur Samara Nicholas, environmental educator Kim
Jones, Maoritanga enthusiast Nicki Wakefield and a businessman and commercial fisher
Hilton Leith.
+MTSCT – DoC 2011-2012 National Workplans Report - DRAFT
8
Vince Kerr
Sioux Campbell
Dr. Roger Grace
Hilton Leith
Samara Nicholas
The Trust strives to work in ways that build community involvement, foster equity, and work
toward a shared vision of ecological sustainability as the basis of all community. The
methods we have developed for delivery of our programmes make a unique contribution to
environmental education in New Zealand.
Services
WBC offers a wide range of services related to Education for Sustainability and freshwater
ecosystems.













Environmental consultancy in freshwater biodiversity, macroinvertebrates, fish
species, ecosystem restoration and management, and biological monitoring methods
Education for Sustainability workshops and presentations to educational and
industrial conferences, stakeholder networks and community groups
Environmental community engagement advice
Planning, coordination and delivery of Northland region WBC training
Support regional and national WBC coordinators
Educational resources – WBC hosts an extensive range of resources and equipment
Advocacy agents
Media liason
Funding application support
Individual and group facilitation and training
Host organization to Royal Society of New Zealand Primary Science Teacher Fellows
(2004, 2005, 2012), interns and other volunteers
WBC website www.whitebaitconnection.co.nz
Photographic archive of WBC activities
We align with the DoC Education Strategy
Our programmes provide ultimate mechanisms for connection between and in marine and
freshwater environments. We are actively working towards the goal in the DoC Education
Strategy of 1 million conservation kids, everyday!
We are growing conservation knowledge, values, skills and ecological literacy in our young
people and communities and are achieving attitude and value change, proven through
conservation actions, and comments such as the following...
“Picking watercress now takes twice as long as the kids are explaining what all the other creatures
in the stream are.”
Parent, Aranga School
+MTSCT – DoC 2011-2012 National Workplans Report - DRAFT
9
We are a dedicated PARTNER giving DoC as much or as little involvement opportunities, but
fulfilling important advocacy and education obligations of the department in all work we do.
“Tell me and I'll forget; show me and I may remember; involve me and I'll understand.” The
programmes with highest learning outcomes are those like Experiencing Marine Reserves
and Whitebait Connection, where students engage in a range of hands-on activities in the
classroom and nature, including the design and delivery of an action project, and have an
expert coordinator available for parts of the learning process.
Families and wider community are involved in the programme through field trips, open
days, and by open and positive discussions of ‘actual, local environmental problems’.
Documented Success Stories
Otamatea High School students working together with the WBC and
local organisations have fenced, replanted and monitored their wetland
area and are now developing interpretation and walkways. Their case
study can be read in detail on the WBC website under WBC Regions,
Northland, Kaipara.
Te Kura Kaupapa Maori O Te Rawhitiroa together with the WBC have
developed the ‘He Kakano’ Community nursery in Whangarei and
successfully propagated and planted over 10,000 native plants along
their awa (Waitaua River) in a bid to restore the mauri (lifeforce). They
showcased their project with the shortfilm ‘Tiakina O Tatou Awa’ and
won best Te Reo film in the ‘Outlook for Someday’ sustainability film
challenge in 2007 and featured on Maori TV’s ‘Miharo’ in July 2010.
Canterbury WBC has flourished despite an extremely challenging
climate and topography. Coordinator, Cody Frewin has developed a
‘stream’ which she takes to the classroom for when the kids can’t go to
the stream. They are also about to embark on overnight WBC marae
stays and a fresh new Mudfish raise and release programme.
WBC Nelson has developed their WBC programme into ‘WaiMaori’ and
become locally sustainable with continued with support from DOC, both
councils and Nga Whenua Rahui, (a DOC fund). They recently featured on
DoC’s ‘Meet the locals’ series under the title ‘Water Guardians’ which can
be viewed online through DOC and WBC websites. A successful Inanga
spawing habitat restoration in the Moutere Inlet has been carried out by
WaiMaori and WBC schools.
WBC Northland has developed a framework for holding a regional
freshwater hui and successfully held it in Northland bi-annually since
2007. Partnerships between government, iwi, hapu and community
groups have been formed and actions such as the “What’s up in
Freshwater’ newsletter have been developed through this forum. The
model is being trialled in other regions throughout the country.
+MTSCT – DoC 2011-2012 National Workplans Report - DRAFT
10
WBC Gisborne has become locally sustainable and have recently been
invited to participate in the scoping of the Turanganui a Kiwa Water
Quality Enhancement Project which is a multi-catchment project
supported by the local authority (GDC). They are currently hosting
workshops for all stakeholders on the subject.
+MTSCT – DoC 2011-2012 National Workplans Report - DRAFT
11
2011/12 WBC National Workplan
WBC National Coordination - Mountains to Sea Conservation Trust
Total Allocated: $8000 + GST
Total Spent: $8000 + GST
Project Plan: Whitebait Connection Programme: National Coordination
Programme Name
Key Contacts
The Whitebait Connection Programme (WBC)

Project Name
Kim Jones, National Coordinator, Whitebait Connection Programme,
Mountains to Sea Conservation Trust (MTSCT)
 Pam Crisp, Conservation Engagement Group, National Office, DOC
Whitebait Connection Programme: national coordination
Project Location
National
National
Coordinator
Kim Jones (Mountains to Sea Conservation Trust)
Project goals and
objectives
Goal: The Trust engages school students, teachers, parents and other community
members in local freshwater management projects, supporting understanding of
the life-sustaining capacity of aquatic ecosystems. People are involved in
ecologically-based, practical inquiry learning about streams, rivers and
catchments. Restorative action is facilitated and supported.
Objectives: The Trust will...
Support DOC’s National Education Strategy goal, objectives, and 20-year
target: ‘One Million Conservation Kids’
 Help young people and communities connect with and deepen their
understanding of freshwater environments, and their place in their lives
 Provide safe and engaging contexts for learning and action in, about and
for freshwater ecosystems and conservation
 Promote an ethic of kaitiakitanga
 Provide DOC staff with an effective tool to build capacity in education &
community engagement, and advance knowledge & experience in
freshwater biodiversity
 Increase understanding & awareness of freshwater environments and
willingness by participants to engage in educational activities &/or
restoration initiatives
 Strengthen & promote DOC’s profile in schools & their communities
 Enhance DOC’s relationships with schools, territorial regional authorities,
tangata whenua and community organisations
The Trust will:

Project activities
or outputs





Support & evaluate WBC facilitators
Provide training for local WBC facilitators, as required.
Manage & administer national WBC funds
Review, improve & update the WBC website and resources
Coordinate & deliver WBC component at 2012 MTSCT wananga
+MTSCT – DoC 2011-2012 National Workplans Report - DRAFT
12
Project outcomes
The Trust will ensure that there is/ are:
Increased understanding, awareness & appreciation of freshwater
environments amongst participants
 Practical skills and experience gained by participants
 Discussion prompted with peers, families & colleagues
 Initiation of and support for conservation & /or restoration projects
 Schools/communities empowered to develop & be part of
widercatchment management concepts and actions
 Improved stakeholder relationships
 Collaboration with other agencies and NGO's involved in freshwater
education and conservation.
 A model on which to build professional freshwater networks at a regional
level
The Trust is responsible for ensuring:

Performance
Measures
Costs
Regular communication with local WBC facilitators, DOC project
supervisors & DOC national contact person
 Teacher/student evaluations are completed at the end of each school
project, and delivered to the Trust
 Photos/ stories are gathered from areas involved, and provided to
DOC
 Evidence of awareness raising (media articles, positive stories etc) is
gathered from areas involved, and provided to DOC
 knowledge & delivery skills of local WBC facilitators is monitored, and
necessary improvements put in place by the National WBC
Coordinator

End-of-year reports from local facilitators: by June 2012

Final evaluation report by the National Coordinator to DOC by: 31
July 2012 (to be presented at annual MTSCT meeting with DOC, Aug 2012)
Budget
Description

Staff Costs –
Mountains to Sea
Trust
$3,500.00
Operational Costs
$2,000





Technology Costs
$1000

Development
Costs
$1500


TOTAL
Regular communication with local WBC
facilitators, DOC project managers, and DOC
national programme manager (phone / email).
Manage and administer WBC funds
Train, support and evaluate South Island WBC
facilitators
Lead & deliver WBC component of 2012 MTSCT
National Marine and Freshwater Wananga.
Contribute to travel & registration costs of DOC
WBC facilitators wishing to attend wananga
Support ongoing development of WBC website
- ensuring accessibility of WBC Programme and
its resources throughout NZ.
Update delivery tools and resources, including
coordinators’ manual, as required
Compile & distribute quarterly e- newsletter,
‘What’s Up in Freshwater?’
$8000.00 + GST
+MTSCT – DoC 2011-2012 National Workplans Report - DRAFT
13
*All funds have been spent
national communication and direction - $3500
Continued communication with areas already seeded by
the DOC funds, such as Westport (DOC is still very much
involved in WBC in these regions) and an evaluation visit to
the South Island. Communication with areas with current
workplans. Management and administration of WBC funds.
national development - $2500
Support ongoing development of the WBC website ensuring accessibility of WBC Programme and its resources
throughout NZ. Update and distribution of delivery tools
and resources, including the coordinators’ manual, teaching
resources and set up files. Compile & distribute quarterly enewsletter, Freshwater Newsletter.
National Marine & Freshwater Wananga 2012 $2000
This funding went directly to providing discounts to
DOC staff to attend. 25% of the 48
delegates were DOC staff, 11 of the 12 DOC staff
received discounts. To see the presentations and
download the proceedings click here or visit
www.whitebaitconnection.co.nz → about us.
Other WBC achievements in 2011-2012
Due to the DoC WBC partnership, and especially support of the WBC National Coordinator
Role, the programme has grown and developed significantly in the last 12 months.
New DOC - WBC Coordinators – Franz Joseph Waiau's Cornelia Vervoorn and Kaitaia's Kylie
McDowell became endorsed coordinators while attending the MTSCT National Wananga
2012.
Additional DoC funding of WBC delivery - Whitebait Connection delivery was funded
through area office programme budgets resulting in engagement with students at Kaitaia,
Bay of Islands, Kauri Coast, Whangarei, Buller and Franz Joseph Area Offices.
A Regional Freshwater Hui coordinated in Northland by the Whitebait Connection in
partnership with DoC, NorthTec, Whangarei District and Northland Regional Councils
facilitated targeted, positive discussions amongst 60 participants on freshwater issues at the
“hui with more do-ey”. Development of this model for use in other areas is ongoing.
Successful sourcing of other funding – Other funding resulting in
### participants has been successfully sought from ASB
Community Trust, Northland Regional Council's Check Clean Dry
+MTSCT – DoC 2011-2012 National Workplans Report - DRAFT
14
Campaign, Nga Whenua Rahui, and locally funded programme delivery.
World Wetlands Day event planning and coordination at the successful Lake Ngatu national
launch event in collaboration with Northland Regional Council, DoC, Ngai Takoto, and local
landcare groups.
Collaborative partnerships with Iwi and Hapu in Northland and
Gisborne have seen development of marae and tikanga based
wananga on developing catchment health indicators based on local
tikanga.
Establishment of an ongoing whitebait abundance monitoring
programme in Northland catchments including and developed by
community groups, schools, and interested stakeholders.
Ongoing WBC development over the last year has included...

provision of the planned Hokitika Whitebait Connection
Coordinator Training Workshop, organised and funded by
DoC Franz Joseph Waiau to be held in October.

new coordinator training and endorsement
processes providing greater support for
coordinators and ensuring the WBC brand and
reputation remains intact.

development of lakes snorkel experience to
add to WBC teaching and learning experiences
in collaboration with EMR
Community engagement presentations to a wide
variety of audiences including Iwi and Hapu organisations and
large multinational corporations.
Representation at regional fieldays
Hosting of Royal Society of New Zealand Primary Science
Teacher Fellow
+MTSCT – DoC 2011-2012 National Workplans Report - DRAFT
15
11/12 Area Workplans
Revised Project Plan: Far North Whitebait Connection Programme
Programme
Name
Whitebait Connection Programme (WBC)
Key Contacts
Project Name
 Carolyn Smith, CR Programme Manager, Kaitaia Area, DOC
 Kim Jones, WBC National Coordinator
WBC Project
Project Location
Kaitaia, Northland
Project
background,
goals and
objectives
Background: WBC providers will work alongside DOC to engage the community in
nationally significant freshwater areas in the Far North.
Goal: To offer schools and their communities practical, holistic and inspiring
information and education about their local freshwater environments and promote
positive changes in attitudes and behaviour towards these environments.
Objectives:
Project activities
or outputs
Project outcomes
Performance
Measures
 Provide opportunities for tangata whenua, schools & communities to take
part in conservation action and make a positive difference to their local
freshwater environments and biodiversity
 Increase knowledge & appreciation of lakes, streams, wetlands and rivers by
communities in the Far North
 Strengthen relationships between DOC staff, & communities in the Far
North
 Develop sustainable, locally driven delivery of WBC in the Far North
 Co-ordinate and facilitate delivery of the Whitebait Connection Programme
to two Far North Schools.
 Mentor DOC staff to co-ordinate WBC delivery, to ensure the programme is
sustained over time
 Provide stories that show how the project supports DOC’s National
Education Strategy, and its work with schools and communities
 Raised awareness and buy-in to freshwater conservation by communities in
the Far North
 Schools, communities, tangata whenua and organizations in the Far North
are taking action to monitor, restore and enhance their waterways
 Positive exposure and profile for DOC
 Relationships are brokered & developed with tangata whenua, DOC and
WBC Programme
 Completion of project milestones to the satisfaction of DOC project
supervisor and WBC National Coordinator
 Regular communication between local WBC facilitator, WBC National
Coordinator and DOC Project Coordinator.
 Evaluation of project with all stakeholders, using the WBC planning and
evaluation framework
 Evaluation report compiled by local WBC Facilitator and provided to
National WBC Coordinator and Kaitaia Area Office by 30 June 2012
 Attendance by local WBC Facilitator at 2012 MTSCT National Marine and
Freshwater Wananga
+MTSCT – DoC 2011-2012 National Workplans Report - DRAFT
16
Costs
Budget
Staff Costs,
including mileage
running costs and $3000 + GST
overheads
TOTAL
Description
Administer, plan, deliver and report on delivery of the Whitebait
Connection Programme
$3000.00 + GST
Far North WBC summary
The Far North workplan was set up to support the newly seeded coordinator Soozee
McIntyre who's WBC delivery was umbrellaed by the Far North Environment Centre (FNEC).
Unfortunately the FNEC are struggling and let Soozee go in March, 2012. After consulting
with Carolyn Smith it was decided to umbrella Soozee under the MTSCT and deliver the
programme in conjunction with DoC Kaitaia's work within the Wara Wara forest.
Panguru Area School on the northern side of the Hokianga Harbour is the focus of this WBC
programme delivery, to be completed by October, 2012. Within the wider area, Soozee will
be continuing the work of WBC coordinator and DoC CR staff member Kylie McDowell
within the Wara Wara forest and forming a network across the schools surrounding the
forest, including Broadwood Area School and Te Kura O Hata Maria who received the WBC
programme earlier in 2012.
So far, in term 3, all 97 students from year 3-13 have
been engaged in the introductory classroom sessions
and have started work on collecting stories connected to
the forest, water and harbour as background research
for the creation of a large-scale map that will weave
together historic and anecdotal information with the
observations they make from the planned field trips.
Some of the older children know the forest as a pighunting area, giving them an active interest in the issues
around pest control, harvesting kai and how this fits with
protecting the waterways which ultimately run to the
Hokianga Harbour – also an important source of food.
+MTSCT – DoC 2011-2012 National Workplans Report - DRAFT
17
Project Plan: Gisborne/Tairawhiti Whitebait Connection Programme
Programme Name
Whitebait Connection Programme (WBC)
Key Contacts
Project Name
 Murray Palmer, Resource Management Advisor, Tairawhiti
 Awhina White, CR Programme Manager, Gisborne Whakatane Area
 Kim Jones, National Coordinator, WBC
Gisborne / Tairawhiti Whitebait Connection Programme
Project Location
Gisborne
Project goals and
objectives
Goal:
 Support WBC to offer schools and their communities practical, holistic and
inspiring information and education about their local freshwater
environments and promote positive changes in attitudes and behaviour
towards these environments.
Objectives:
Project activities or
outputs
Project outcomes
Performance
Measures
 Provide information about freshwater ecosystem functioning and
restoration, and offer practical advice to Tairawhiti communities and
landowners.
 Strengthen relationships between the local community, tangata whenua,
DOC, Gisborne District Council, Ministry of Education (LEOTC) and WBC
 Increase community buy-in to freshwater ecosystem restoration, and
create a sustainable network for the Tairawhiti community to draw on.
 Deliver two WBC workshops to communities in Gisborne/ Tairawhiti
 Promote the Whangara School approach* and its achievements to other
communities in Gisborne/ Tairawhiti
 Share learnings and achievements of the project with DOC & stakeholders
 [* A whole catchment, land-to-sea approach embracing Maori values and,
where possible, linking and drawing on both the WBC and EMR
Programmes]
 Positive profile for the Department
 Increasing numbers of people in Gisborne/ Tairawhiti area are learning to
value and take action to protect and enhance their freshwater
environments
 Improved relationships with communities
 Sustained involvement by landowners and the wider community to
enhance and restore their freshwater ecosystems
 More DOC staff are aware of the WBC programme and its benefits, and
inspired to get involved
 Completion of project milestones to the satisfaction of DOC project
supervisor and National WBC Coordinator
 Regular communication between local WBC Facilitator, National WBC
Coordinator and DOC staff
 Evaluation report compiled by local WBC Facilitator and provided to
National WBC Coordinator and DOC by 30 June 2012
 Attendance at 2012 MTSCT National Marine and Freshwater Wananga by
local WBC Facilitator
+MTSCT – DoC 2011-2012 National Workplans Report - DRAFT
18
Costs
Budget
Description
Staff Costs,
including mileage
running costs and
overheads
$2000
Assist DOC and Gisborne District Council to deliver two
workshops in Tairawhiti to increase understanding of
freshwater ecosystem functioning and restoration
practice, and provide advice to communities and
landowners
Total
$2,000 + GST
Gisborne WBC summary
This funding was to specifically develop workshops in the Gisborne region. Murray has been
working hard on developing these and has struck up a good relationship with many
stakeholders in the region including DoC, district and regional councils, Dame Anne
Salmond, iwi/hapu groups and federated farmers. Gisborne District Council have supported
the workshops which includes dissemination of the adaptation of the National Freshwater
Policy Statement in the Gisborne area. The planned workshops have undergone
development in collaboration with stakeholder groups, but delivery has been delayed until
the weather is more reliable.
Despite the main activity in this workplan being incomplete, Murray and the Gisborne WBC
team have maintained freshwater support and advice for the following community groups...
 Longbush Ecosanctuary – freshwater management role ongoing
 Waikanae Strm restoration project – ongoing support
 Mahanga E Tu - stream and coastal restoration initiative – ongoing support
 Te Penu Marae and Kopuaroa stream restoration project – joint initiator with Marae
committee and Makarika school; ongoing
 Nga awa ora, nga tai ora – Healthy rivers, living sea – ongoing research into
freshwater and coastal ecology and management practice
 Women’s Native Tree Project – ongoing support
 Nga Awa Ora Waiomoko – ongoing support
Through Murray's ongoing work within East Cape and Gisborne schools 1725 students
supported through WBC and EMR programs at 26 primary and 5 secondary schools in the
last year.
+MTSCT – DoC 2011-2012 National Workplans Report - DRAFT
19
Project Plan: Nelson WaiMaori /Whitebait Connection Programme
Programme Name
Whitebait Connection Programme (WBC)
Key Contacts
Project Name
 Mel McColgan, WaiMaori/WBC Facilitator
 Kura Stafford, Tiakina Taiao
 Jazz Scott, Community Outreach Coordinator, Nelson Marlborough
Conservancy, DOC
 Kim Jones, National Coordinator, WBC
Nelson WaiMaori / Whitebait Connection Programme
Project Location
Nelson
Project goals and
objectives
Goal: Support WBC to offer schools and their communities practical, holistic and
inspiring information and education about their local freshwater environments
and promote positive changes in attitudes and behaviour towards these
environments
Objectives:
Project activities or
outputs
Project outcomes
Performance
Measures
 Support Tiakina Taiao to deliver the WaiMaori /Whitebait Connection
Programme to one Nelson school in Term one, 2012 as part of the Waimea
Estuary inanga spawning restoration project
 Promote the Whitebait Connection school /community approach and
foster strong action outcomes
 Raise awareness and inspire ongoing involvement & support for
programme by DOC
 Raise awareness of the programme by the community through local
media, and school/group newsletters, etc.
 Deliver WaiMaori/ Whitebait Connection Programme to one new school &
its community in Term one 2012
 Assist school to put straw bales out into the estuary within one week prior
to the spring tide (end of March 2012) to assist inanga spawning
 Provide stories that show how the project supports DOC’s National
Education Strategy, and its work with schools and communities
 An increased number of people are learning to value and take action for
freshwater environments and inanga spawning habitat
 A strong Maori cultural component is delivered through the WaiMaori
approach
 Completion of project milestones to the satisfaction of DOC project
supervisor and WBC National Coordinator.
 Regular communication between local WBC Facilitator, WBC National
Coordinator and DOC project supervisor
 Evaluation report to be compiled by local WaiMaori/WBC Facilitator, using
the WBC evaluation template, and provided to WBC National Coordinator
and DOC by 30 April 2012
 Attendance at 2012 MTSCT National Marine and Freshwater Wananga by
local WBC Facilitator
Costs
Budget
Description
+MTSCT – DoC 2011-2012 National Workplans Report - DRAFT
20
Staff Costs,
including mileage
running costs and
overheads
$2000
TOTAL
$2000.00 + GST
Administer, plan, deliver and report on all aspects of
WaiMaori/ Whitebait Connection Programme to one
Nelson school in Term one, 2012 (including ongoing
support with action project/s if required)
Nelson WaiMaori WBC summary
The Whitebait Connection pilot programme began in the Nelson area in 2004 when Sarah
Langi took it on under the Department of Conservation. Pou Kura Taiao – Barney Thomas
felt the subject of local waterways being taught would need representation of Maori values.
Tangata whenua were consulted and all agreed on naming the programme Waimaori.
Melanie McColgan joined Waimaori in 2004, assisting with delivery of stream sessions and
representing local iwi perspectives relating to traditional caretaking of waterways and the
life within. The programme has continued with funding and support from Nelson City
Council, Department of Conservation, Tasman District Council, Nga Whenua Rahui, the
Canterbury Community Trust & the Mountains to Sea Conservation Trust (WBC).
Since 2007 Waimaori has been under Tiakina te Taiao, the iwi environmental agency, which
represents four of the six iwi in the Whakatu (Nelson) and Motueka rohe (district).
This year's project is exciting as it involves getting WaiMaori to deliver the full WBC
programme to a WBC school and involve them in an Inanga spawning site restoration
project with hay bales in the Waimea Estuary with Mike Hickford.
Tasman School participated in the full WBC programme at regular time
slots with Mel over term 1 & 2, in conjunction with Experiencing Marine
Reserves delivery within the school by EMR coordinator Meghan
Wilson. This new model was developed in collaboration with EMR Coordinator and teacher of Motueka - Megan Wilson and Sue Shand.
Students gained new knowledge, skills and respect from their
“Mountains to Sea” learning experience, including successfully caring
for Inanga eggs in the Motuere Inlet. Tasman School has adopted the
inanga spawning site near the school, and intend to continue providing
hay bales for inanga spawning. The school also took a stand against a
local “muddy buddy” event which involved a race across the mudflats
of the Moutere Inlet, including known inanga spawning areas.
In addition to Tasman School, the Whitebait Connection concept was received by 12
groups/schools involving approximately 1140 people. 70% of Nelson's participants were
new to measuring freshwater quality and habitat assessments. Mel delivered the
programme in collaboration with local DoC, Fish & Game, Nelson City Council, Mike Hickford
& the Brook Sanctuary.
Mel attended the wananga in January.
+MTSCT – DoC 2011-2012 National Workplans Report - DRAFT
21
Project Plan: Mahaanui ‘Mudfish in Schools’ Whitebait Connection Programme
Programme Name
Whitebait Connection Programme (WBC)
Key Contacts
Project Name
 Grant Campbell, CR Programme Manager, Mahaanui Area
 Phillipa Gardner, Community Outreach Coordinator, Canterbury
Conservancy
 Kim Jones, WBC National Coordinator
Mahaanui ‘Mudfish in Schools’ Whitebait Connection Programme
Project Location
Mahaanui, North Canterbury
Project goals and
objectives
Goal:To offer schools and their communities practical, holistic and inspiring
education about their local freshwater environments and promote positive
changes in attitudes and behaviour towards these environments.
Objectives:
Project activities or
outputs
Project outcomes
Performance
Measures
 Increase awareness and understanding by participants of terrestrial and
aquatic biodiversity, ecology and land management issues
 Strengthen DOC’s capability to develop positive community relationships,
through working in schools and the wider community
 Important conservation issues may be addressed, and active measures
sought to improve management and protection of aquatic environments
and riparian areas (e.g. riparian fencing and planting)
 Co-ordinate development of the ‘Mudfish in Schools’ /WBC programme
and pilot with two schools in the Mahaanui area, in partnership with
Environment Canterbury (Includes: equipment set up; introductory
sessions; site visits (where appropriate); follow up sessions)
 Identify, develop & maintain stakeholder relationships & partnership
support
 Lead a possible ‘take action’ activity (mudfish release) or event
 Seek opportunities to raise the profile of DOC / WBC through local media
and other forms of publicity (e.g. school newsletters, community bulletins)
 Provide stories that show how the project supports DOC’s National
Education Strategy, and its work with schools and communities
 Increased understanding and awareness by participants of terrestrial and
aquatic biodiversity, ecology and land management issues
 Enhanced relationships & capacity-building with schools & community
 Increased capability by DOC staff to liaise & collaborate with other
organisations (e.g. councils, iwi)
 Opportunities to support or initiate restoration actions (planting, fencing,
management, translocation of mudfish)
 Completion of project milestones to the satisfaction of DOC project
supervisor and WBC National Coordinator
 Regular communication between local WBC Facilitator, WBC National
Coordinator and DOC project supervisor
 Evaluation report compiled by local WBC facilitator and provided to WBC
National Coordinator and DOC by 30 June 2012
 Attendance at 2012 MTSCT National Marine and Freshwater Wananga by
local WBC Facilitator, if possible
+MTSCT – DoC 2011-2012 National Workplans Report - DRAFT
22
Costs
Budget
Staff Costs,
including mileage
running costs and
overheads
$3000.00
TOTAL
$ 3,000 + GST
Description


‘Mudfish in schools’ programme development
and equipment set-up costs.
Programme coordination and delivery
[Note: Funds carried over from 2010/11]
Mahaanui WBC programme summary
This funding has been rolled over from the 2010/2011 contract as the Earthquakes and
departure of WBC Coordinator Cody Ferwin in November 2010. Several likely coordinators
were identified throughout 2011 and in early 2012, but schedule clashes and maternity
prevented the training of a new WBC coordinator for the Canterbury region... that is until
the return of Cody Ferwin in July, 2012.
It would seem within hours of Cody's return Seven Oaks School had signed up to
receive the programme. In 2014 the school will take up its new residence on 10 acres of
land in Halswell, and will provide an alternative education option for new entrants to Y13
students. As part of their philosophy the school wants to create an eco-friendly environment
for its staff and students, and for native plants and animals. The school asked for Cody's help
to see what they could do with the area. Cody’s suggestion went wider than just planting
some trees, but actually provide an ecosystem more appropriate for freshwater life than the
previous farmland and create wider biodiversity.
Cody suggested the school embark on an ongoing research
project, starting immediately. The Y7 students at the school each
year would undertake freshwater monitoring with the hope that
over time the biodiversity in the stream would improve
significantly.
Step one: Class talk to students to get them thinking about what
they should find in an ideal stream.
Step two: Trip to the stream to undertake freshwater monitoring. What did they find?
Snails, worms and water-boatmen. That’s it. They also found that the stream really ponged,
had a deep layer of silty sediment, no riparian margin (unless you count the lone gorse
bush) and it was full of litter – despite being in the middle of a
paddock.
Step three: Field trip to DOC Motukarara nursery to discuss
appropriate plants for their area and learn about eco-sourced
seed collection, how to sow seed, how to prick out, and what
types of plants would suit their stream.
Step four and beyond… The students are currently working on
their restoration planting plan, they are writing up their stream
study findings so it can be added to over the years, they are
+MTSCT – DoC 2011-2012 National Workplans Report - DRAFT
23
cleaning out the green house at their school and growing on their own eco-sourced seeds so
that they can provide some of the plants themselves… they are going to be very busy!
+MTSCT – DoC 2011-2012 National Workplans Report - DRAFT
24
Budget Allocations and Expenditure 11/12 (as of 31/8/2012) WBC area workplans
AREA
AMOUNT
ALLOCATED
AMOUNT SPENT
(incl. GST)
(plus GST)
AMOUNT LEFT
OVER
(incl. GST)
TO BE TO BE
CARRIED OVER TO
12/13
Far North (currently $3000.00
being delivered)
$0
$3,450.00
$3,450.00
Gisborne
$2000.00
$0
$0
Canterbury – Mahaanui $3,000.00
$0
Area Office ( delivery has
started & workplan (rolled over from
finalised - to be paid out 2010/11 year)
in early september,
2012)
$3,450.00
$3,450.00
Nelson – WaiMaori
$2000.00
$2,000.00
$0.00
$0.00
TOTAL
$10,000.00
$4,000.00
$6,900.00
$3,450.00
$2000.00
+MTSCT – DoC 2011-2012 National Workplans Report - DRAFT
25
WBC Strategic Direction
Strategic Direction – Overarching Vision
 local freshwater ecosystems are restored or protected and valued
 communities are inspired by & participate in ecosystem & catchment management
 continuation of development and support for national programmes, while





showcasing successful WBC models such as the relationship with He Kakano
community nursery, regional freshwater hui, monitoring projects and inanga
spawning habitat restoration
WBC Programme goals and objectives
target audiences understand freshwater protection issues and principles
developing and existing groups are actively supported
knowledge gained through WBC is shared between agencies, communities and
individuals. This knowledge is used to work collaboratively whenever possible
links between other Mountains to Sea Conservation Trust (MTSCT) programmes,
such as EMR can be demonstrated.
Strategic Vision – National
 make the national coordinator role more sustainable through gaining more funding












outside of the DoC contract
continue to support WBC in existing its regions; Northland, Gisborne, Marlborough
South, Nelson, Buller, Westport and Canterbury
expand the programme nationally through securing more funding outside of the DoC
contract
support other regional coordinators to find locally sustainable funding
find corporate sponsorship
continue to target all freshwater environments including streams, rivers, lakes and
wetlands
where possible have coordinators trained in both WBC & EMR delivery or where
separate providers are in the same region, support them to work in partnership
continue the ‘mountains to sea’ catchment focus where possible and focus on
restoration of riparian zones, wetlands and Whitebait spawning habitat
build a publicly available database of info collected on WBC trips including fish and
invertebrate indexes
provide a national WBC freshwater newsletter
provide training & networking opportunities for coordinators at the MTSCT wananga
work positively with all stakeholders – find ways to work with farming industry
continue to stay up to date with the most pressing freshwater issues and innovations
by holding regional and national networking workshops, and regular professional
development
+MTSCT – DoC 2011-2012 National Workplans Report - DRAFT
26
DoC – WBC Ongoing Partnership Proposal
The Whitebait Connection brand has grown to a reliable and reputable programme in well
established areas, becoming financially sustainable.
Throughout DoC's investment in the programme, the Whitebait Connection has snowballed
in 5 regions, active in 9 DoC area offices, and delivered by MTSCT, DoC staff, and other
charitable trust umbrella organisations. An estimated 52,000 New Zealanders from over
1174 schools, marae and community groups have participated in the programme, and
gained first hand experience of their local freshwater environments.
Organisational development, along with it's marine sister programme Experiencing Marine
Reserves, has resulted in a highly professional standard across all aspects of the brand.
We truly believe in kaitiakitanga, where conservation is the responsibility of all New
Zealanders and as a NGO seek to work collaboratively, and facilitate the formation of
partnerships on a day to day basis.
Our programme aligns closely with DOC Statement of Intent, Education Strategy and
Biodiversity Policy areas. The Mountains to Sea Conservation Trust's programmes wish to
continue the partnership that has brought us so far.
Critical to the programmes ongoing success is maintaining our currrent coordinators around
the county through the provision of a National Coordinator, well resourced website and
regular face to face training opportunities through National Wananga and evaluation visits.
It is for these activities we seek national level support for.
+MTSCT – DoC 2011-2012 National Workplans Report - DRAFT
27
Whitebait Connection Proposed Budget 2012/2013
Mountains to Sea Conservation Trust –National Delivery/coordination and Resources
AREA
AMOUNT ALLOCATED (plus GST of 15%)
Staff Costs – MTSCT
$5000.00
National Evaluation and Communication with
regional coordinators in all existing areas WBC
operating :
Seeded and recently seeded areas via email and
phone and evaluation visits. Communication
with area coordinators via email and phone.
National contract liaison and reporting.
Operational Costs
$3000.00
Whitebait Connection aspect at annual MTSCT
national wananga 2013
Including sponsorship of Flights and registration
for current and prospective WBC coordinators
from around NZ to attend and time for Kims
coordination of the event e.g. Communications
and venue/programme coordination.
Technology Costs
$2000.00
Website
The ongoing development and web mastering
of the WBC website, which is considered a
priority to ensuring the accessibility of the
programme to all of NZ. Contribution to
Resource Directory module.
Development Costs
$5000.00
Resource Development/Equipment
Updating of programme resources/equipment
and compilation and distribution of national
freshwater newsletter.
TOTAL
$15000.00 + GST
+MTSCT – DoC 2011-2012 National Workplans Report - DRAFT
28
+MTSCT – DoC 2011-2012 National Workplans Report - DRAFT
29
Appendix I media articles
+MTSCT – DoC 2011-2012 National Workplans Report - DRAFT
30
+MTSCT – DoC 2011-2012 National Workplans Report - DRAFT
31
Appendix II: WBC Regions Structure Diagrams
NB – All regions are responsible for reporting back annually to the WBC’s founding trust via it’s WBC
National Coordinator, Kim Jones. The Trust also provides direction, guidance, resources and ongoing
support to its regions.
+MTSCT – DoC 2011-2012 National Workplans Report - DRAFT
32
DRAFT 2012/2013 Project Plan: Whitebait Connection Programme: National Coordination
Programme Name
Key Contacts
The Whitebait Connection Programme (WBC)

Project Name
Kim Jones and Nicki Wakefield, National Coordinators, Whitebait
Connection Programme, Mountains to Sea Conservation Trust (MTSCT)
 Pam Crisp, Conservation Engagement Group, National Office, DOC
Whitebait Connection Programme: national coordination
Project Location
National
National
Coordinator
Kim Jones and Nicki Wakefield (Mountains to Sea Conservation Trust)
Project goals and
objectives
Goal:
The Trust engages school students, teachers, parents and other community
members in local freshwater management projects, supporting understanding
of the life-sustaining capacity of aquatic ecosystems. People are involved in
ecologically-based, practical inquiry learning about streams, rivers and
catchments. Restorative action is facilitated and supported.
Objectives: The Trust will –
Support DOC’s National Education Strategy goal, objectives, and 20year target: ‘One Million Conservation Kids’
 Help young people and communities connect with and deepen their
understanding of freshwater environments, and their place in their
lives
 Provide safe and engaging contexts for learning and action in, about
and for freshwater ecosystems and conservation
 Promote an ethic of kaitiakitanga
 Provide DOC staff with an effective tool to build capacity in education
& community engagement, and advance knowledge & experience in
freshwater biodiversity
 Increase understanding & awareness of freshwater environments and
willingness by participants to engage in educational activities &/or
restoration initiatives
 Strengthen & promote DOC’s profile in schools & their communities
 Enhance DOC’s relationships with schools, territorial regional
authorities, tangata whenua and community organisations
The Trust will–

Project activities or
outputs
 Support & evaluate WBC facilitators
 Provide training for local WBC facilitators, as required.
 Manage & administer national WBC funds
 Review, improve & update the WBC website and resources
 Coordinate & deliver WBC component at 2012 MTSCT wananga
+MTSCT – DoC 2011-2012 National Workplans Report - DRAFT
33
Project outcomes
The Trust will ensure that there is/ are –

Performance
Measures
Costs
Increased understanding, awareness & appreciation of freshwater
environments amongst participants
 Practical skills and experience gained by participants
 Discussion prompted with peers, families & colleagues
 Initiation of and support for conservation & /or restoration projects
 Schools/communities empowered to develop & be part of
widercatchment management concepts and actions
 Improved stakeholder relationships
 Collaboration with other agencies and NGO's involved in freshwater
education and conservation.
 A model on which to build professional freshwater networks at a
regional level
The Trust is responsible for ensuring –

Regular communication with local WBC facilitators, DOC
project supervisors & DOC national contact person

Teacher/student evaluations are completed at the end of
each school project, and delivered to the Trust

Photos/ stories are gathered from areas involved, and
provided to DOC

Evidence of awareness raising (media articles, positive
stories etc) is gathered from areas involved, and provided to DOC

knowledge & delivery skills of local WBC facilitators is
monitored, and necessary improvements put in place by the National
WBC Coordinator
Project Milestones
 End-of-year reports from local facilitators: by June 2012
 Final evaluation report by the National Coordinator to DOC by: 31 July
2012 (to be presented at annual MTSCT meeting with DOC, Aug 2012)
Budget
Description
Staff Costs –
Mountains to Sea
Trust
$5000.00
Operational Costs
$3,000





Technology Costs
$2000

Regular communication with local WBC
facilitators, DOC project managers, and DOC
national programme manager (phone / email).
Manage and administer WBC funds
Train, support and evaluate WBC
coordinators
Lead & deliver WBC component of 2012
MTSCT National Marine and Freshwater
Wananga.
Contribute to travel & registration costs of
DOC WBC facilitators wishing to attend wananga
Support ongoing development of WBC
website - ensuring accessibility of WBC
Programme and its resources throughout NZ.
+MTSCT – DoC 2011-2012 National Workplans Report - DRAFT
34
Development Costs
$5000


TOTAL
Update delivery tools and resources,
including coordinators’ manuals and field
equipment, as required.
Compile & distribute quarterly e- newsletter,
‘What’s Up in Freshwater?’
$15000.00 + GST
+MTSCT – DoC 2011-2012 National Workplans Report - DRAFT
35