The Rotorua Forest Futures Action Plan
Friday 22 Mar 2024
The Rotorua Forest Futures Action Plan has been
officially launched, a key document in bringing together
much of the work that has been completed in the past, highlighting the
importance of the forestry sector to Rotorua. This innovative and
practical plan recognises Rotorua’s natural strengths in the sector
and highlights key focus areas, emphasising the importance of community
engagement, environmental stewardship, and economic development.
A unified vision for the future
Development of the Action Plan was a collaborative effort, led by an
oversight group made up of seven Rotorua-based organisations: CNI Wood
Council, Scion, Te Uru Rākau New Zealand Forest Service, Toi Ohomai | Te
Pūkenga, Rotorua Lakes Council, RotoruaNZ, and Whenua Oho. The action plan
contains 32 different actions with a series of different action owners.
Key highlights of the Action Plan
- Moving to carbon zero: With a strong focus on
sustainability, the Action Plan aims to contribute to climate change
mitigation through increased tree planting and the adoption of carbon-zero
practices. This aligns with broader environmental goals and the global
effort to reduce carbon emissions. The Action Plan outlines a commitment
to diverse planting, supporting a mix of species that contribute to
ecological resilience and economic viability. This approach ensures
forests are more adaptable to changing climates and market demands.
- Māori and forests: Central to the plan is the
incorporation of te ao Māori perspectives, ensuring that practices are
aligned with Māori values and the principles of kaitiakitanga
(guardianship). This includes initiatives designed by Māori for Māori,
supporting their significant role in the forestry sector.
- Research, science, innovation and commercialisation:
The plan highlights the role of forestry in driving economic growth, with
a focus on innovation, research, and the development of a circular
bioeconomy. This includes investments in wood processing and technology
that leverage Rotorua’s position as a hub for forestry excellence.
- Engaged communities: Recognising the vital role of
the community, the plan emphasises engagement and education to ensure that
the benefits of forestry are widely understood and shared. This includes
efforts to enhance recreational access to forests and educational programs
to inspire the next generation of forestry professionals.
A call to action
The Rotorua Forest Futures
Action Plan is not just a document but a call to action for all
stakeholders to work together towards a shared vision. It represents a
significant opportunity to shape the future of forestry in Rotorua,
ensuring it is sustainable, inclusive, and economically vibrant.
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Source: RotoruaNZ
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