We are a group of like-minded people from all over New Zealand and beyond who appreciate Tongariro National Park as a special place for its natural, cultural and recreation values. Our goal is to to introduce people to the park and surrounding natural areas through society and volunteer projects and outings. We enjoy a special working relationship with the Department of Conservation, who manages the park and other conservation areas in the central North Island. We undertake a number of conservation projects on their behalf using Project Tongariro (TNHS) members, New Zealand and international volunteers. Join us in helping maintain our beautiful natural resource that is Tongariro National Park.
Our Executive
President
Project Tongariro has been a large part of my life since I returned to the Central North Island as Chief Ranger of Tongariro National Park in 1986. From then until my retirement in 2012, I served as the Department of Conservation’s (DOC) representative on the Board. Since retiring, I have continued to be involved, appointed to the Board at AGMs — except for a two-year period when I served as Honorary Director (CEO). This is my second term as President.
Growing up in Wellington, my life was dominated by tramping and climbing including a climbing expedition to Peru in 1968. While studying Commerce, I realised a business career wasn’t for me - though I’ve found those learnings invaluable throughout my career and life. My working life has been very focused on working in National Parks and conservation. I have been fortunate to serve as a Ranger in Tongariro National Park and as Chief Ranger in Hauraki Gulf Maritime National Park and Fiordland National Park, in addition to my time in Tongariro. For 23 years, until my retirement, I was DOC Conservator for Tongariro/Taupō. A highlight of my career was representing the Department at numerous World Heritage Committee and forum meetings throughout the years.
My wife Lynne, along with our daughter and son, have been incredibly supportive of my career. I am especially proud of their own successes, despite the challenges of 14 years of frequent moves and a husband or father who was often away! Beyond conservation, I have also served as Chair of Pihanga Health and the Tongariro Whānau Support Trust, which allowed me to contribute to the community in diverse and rewarding ways.
Early in my career, I recognised that managing National Parks and conservation areas is far too big a task for a government department alone - community support is essential. I have watched Project Tongariro grow from its beginnings as a ‘living legacy’ into a truly impactful organisation. Being part of this journey has been incredibly rewarding, and I remain deeply committed to its mission.
Ngā mihi,
Paul Green
executive Board Members
Allan McKenzie
I had a long career at DOC head office in nature heritage protection and associated policy development. I was involved in the creation of the Nature Heritage Fund and the NZ Conservation Authority and Conservation Boards. I’m proud of a my involvement in the procurement of large areas of unique landscape to be protected and preserved by the Crown. I believe my ability to think strategically is a valuable addition to the Project Tongariro Executive.
Always a keen outdoorsman; tramper and skier, I now ski every good day at Mt Ruapehu and each winter season in Canada and maintain my interest in the outdoors by being involved in Mahi Aroha and many other Project Tongariro events.
Catriona Eagles
Karen Grimwade
I have loved the beautiful forests and fragile alpine landscapes of the central plateau ever since arriving as a young thing - 30 odds years ago. I have been skiing, tramping and walking in the area ever since. I worked for DOC for many years in various operational and admin roles, and also a member of the TNHS – the wonderful people I worked with over those DOC years shaped my conservation views. Being a member of the Ohakune & Turangi fire brigades influenced my belief in community networks being essential to make projects happen.
I have a BA in NZ History, and MA in Cultural Heritage Management. After having my two lovely boys, I wrote local histories, helped research & design interp displays and most recently updated the TNP Plant Identification guide.
Now my boys are off to university, giving me time on my hands, so like many on the Project Tongariro Board, I am keen to ‘give back’ to this precious place.
Lucy Roberts
Originally from Rotherham, South Yorkshire in the UK, I have worked in conservation since leaving University in 1990. I worked in the UK as a Ranger for 12 years then moved to New Zealand with my Kiwi partner Sarah in 2001.
I was lucky enough to work as a Biodiversity Ranger for DOC in Turangi for 10 years, living in Taupo and then Turangi. This is when I developed my love for the area. I worked directly with Project Tongariro.
I then spent 7 years working for DOC at the Waikato District office working on various projects including the Whangamarino wetland and working with Waikato Tainui iwi, hapu and whanau on projects connected to the Waikato River treaty settlement.
I currently work as a Technical Advisor (Weeds) for the Department of Conservation (DOC) based out of Kirikiriroa but very much consider the central north island and Tongariro National Park as my home in New Zealand. It is a place which Sarah my partner, my Mum Jane and I love. Being on the executive committee keeps me connected to the area and people. Project Tongariro are like family to me.
Murray Wilson
Sarah Carter
I grew up in the UK, where I studied Veterinary Medicine and Biological Anthropology. I moved to Taupō in 2009 and fell in love with the Central North Island. Over this time, I have developed a love of trail running and become involved in the Taupō swim community. I have also started a small native planting project on our deer farm.
I have recently completed a Masters in the UNs Sustainable Development Goals focusing on environmental sustainability. As part of my study I completed a student placement with Project Tongariro. I look forward to being able to contribute to the work of this organisation, looking after and connecting people to our unique and precious environment.
Shirley Potter
I am extremely passionate about our native fauna and flora. Our environmental crusade began against possums in 2007, followed closely by the suite of other predators in the neighbourhood. There is a lot of restoration work to be done with the invasion of pest plants in our beautiful area and I am very happy to be involved helping to make some big changes to the landscape.
Being active in Project Tongariro opens many doors to environmental activities and a raft of skilled and knowledgeable people. I am soaking up as much as I can and hoping to share those learnings with as many others as possible, “infecting” them with the same dislike for pest animals and plants.
Steve Bell
Having retired to Taupō in recent years and with a little time on my hands, I am looking forward to working with the PT team and using time and skills to help our local environment .
Having a lifelong love of the outdoors, and now watching my grandchildren showing a love for the same, what a pleasure it will be to work alongside like minded people.
Sarah Tunnicliffe
(DOC Representative)
Bruce Jefferies
(Honorary Vice President)
Our Team
Kiri Te Wano
Director
kiri@tongariro.org.nz
Anna Calvert
Project Tongariro Conservation Coordinator
anna@tongariro.org.nz
Hannah Townley
Project Tongariro Conservation Coordinator (Maternity Cover)
hannah@tongariro.org.nz
Liz Brooker
Waimarino Environmental Educator
liz@tongariro.org.nz
Robyn Ellis
Greening Taupō Coordinator
Predator Free Taupō Coordinator
robyn@greeningtaupo.org.nz
Rachel Thompson
Kids Greening Taupō
Lead Environmental Education Coordinator
rachel@greeningtaupo.org.nz
Heidi Pritchard
Kids Greening Taupō
Environmental Education Coordinator
heidi@greeningtaupo.org.nz
Naomi Keane
Kids Greening Taupō
Assistant Coordinator
naomi@greeningtaupo.org.nz
Our advisors
Nicholas Singers - Singers Ecological (Ecology Technical Advisor (Volunteer))
Alana Delich - Singers Ecological (Senior Ecologist)
Ken Horner - Honorary Solicitor (Halliwells, Taranaki)
Kim Manunui - Marketing and Website (Volunteer)
Thea DePetris - Environmental Education Specialist