They include maintaining and restoring a full range of our remaining natural habitats and ecosystems and viable populations of all native species. More than one thousand of our known animal, plant and fungi species are at risk of extinction. If future trends continue, many populations of the kiwi, a symbol of our national identity, will also be effectively extinct within 20 years. This boost to the Kiwi Recovery Programme will help ensure populations are retained on the mainland. It will also enable more New Zealanders to see their national bird in its natural habitat.
Biodiversity refers to the diversity of plants and animals and the place they live.
The 1997 Report on the State of New Zealand's Environment identified the decline of our indigenous biodiversity as the country's most pervasive environmental issue. The Biodiversity Strategy, in response, establishes the strategic framework for action to conserve and sustainable use and manage biodiversity. The new funding package will enable key aspects of the strategy to be implemented. For example, further applications to the Nature Heritage Fund, Nga Whenua Rahui and QEII National Trust can be processed. The funding will also speed up the creation of marine reserves, leading to the protection of a wider range of marine ecosystems and biodiversity.