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All about FRIENDS of Banks Peninsula

Our Purpose and Objectives

The purpose of the Society is to promote environmental sustainability and the preservation and protection of the natural and historic resources of Banks Peninsula and its surrounding marine environment.

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The objectives are - 

To encourage and support:

  • activities related to the protection, maintenance and re-establishment of indigenous flora and fauna, biodiversity and natural ecosystems.

  • the recognition, protection and enhancement of significant natural

  • features and landscapes, including the marine environment, wetlands, lakes and rivers.

  • the recognition, protection and maintenance of significant historic heritage and amenity values.

To promote sustainability, resilience and community well-being and to exercise leadership and advocacy in relation to the purpose and objects of the Society. 

To maintain open and constructive relationships with the community and relevant authorities and organisations.

To act as an umbrella group to link and assist individuals and groups involved with environmental issues in and around Banks Peninsula.

Our Organisation

We are an Incorporated Society managed by a committee of 10 elected at its Annual General meeting.

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Our current committee (2024-25) consists of:

Jan Cook – Chair

Suky Thompson - Deputy Chair

Sue Church – Secretary

Gavin Sheperd – Treasurer

Brent Martin

Kevin Parthonnaud

Averil Parthonnaud

Fiona Turner

Craig Church

Geraldine Guillemot-Peacock

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The committee meets on an as needed basis.

Our next AGM will be held in October and will be announced in News.

History and Achievements

FRIENDS of Banks Peninsula was established in 1990 to protect and enhance the environmental heritage of Banks Peninsula and safe-guard the environment for future generations.  Achievements over the years include:

   

  • Setting up the first recycling facilities in Akaroa now managed through Christchurch City Council

  • Extensive involvement with the District Plan and resource management process ensuring local environmental concerns are recognised

  • Promotion of marine conservation and protection of the harbour and its wildlife and natural environment

  • Many successful campaigns to protect the area from offensive developments including appeals to the Environment Court.

  

Over the years our work has gained the organisation recognition from councils and government agencies and we have become an established part of the environmental information network.

  

The Akaroa Wastewater campaign is currently the principle activity of the Society.

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