In a huge win for conservation, National is committing to permanently double baseline funding for the Queen Elizabeth II National Trust if elected, says National Agriculture spokesman Todd McClay and National Conservation spokesman Tama Potaka.
These funds would provide the Trust with long-term funding certainty and support its work alongside farmers and landowners protecting New Zealand's natural and cultural heritage.
"The vast majority of land in New Zealand is privately owned, with significant areas of native bush, wetlands and biodiversity. This makes the QEII Trust's work with farmers and landowners through voluntary covenants critical in protecting our unique biodiversity and landscapes," says Mr Potaka.
"This funding will restore the Trust's capacity to take on new covenants and give it the certainty to continue delivering quality support to landowners protecting New Zealand's natural heritage.
"Permanent funding certainty means QEII Trust can plan ahead, respond to growing demand, and continue providing practical support for fencing, weed and pest control, revegetation, and covenant enhancement.
"A huge variety of different ecosystems are found on private land. QEII National Trust prioritises wetlands, sand dune systems, and indigenous lowland ecosystems, as these have suffered the biggest loss.
"It is fitting that this investment comes at a time when many in the conservation community are reflecting on recently deceased Chair Alan Livingston's immense contribution to the QEII Trust and the protection of New Zealand's natural heritage. The best way we can honour that legacy is by continuing the work he championed, by protecting the unique ecosystems on private land that are so important to New Zealand's biodiversity and future." says Mr Potaka.
Agriculture spokesman Todd McClay says farmers are among the QEII Trust's greatest supporters and biggest allies.
"Farmers and rural landowners already do a huge amount of wetland restoration, native planting, and habitat protection but it comes at a cost. The work of the Trust and the funding it provides is invaluable to further encourage this work on private land.
"National wants QEII to have security of funding so they can concentrate on the protection of land for the benefit of all New Zealand. Rural and regional groups have been deeply disappointed that covenant work was scaled back because of a lack of funding, and this commitment will be welcomed by them all.
If National becomes government, the baseline funding for the Queen Elizabeth QEII Trust will lift from approximately $4.2 million to approximately $8.5 million per year. The increase will be confirmed in Budget 2027 and will be a permanent, not a time-limited top up.
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