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An innovative approach to connecting economic development with environmental conservation has earned Taranaki national recognition at the 2026 Economic Development New Zealand (EDNZ) Awards.
Nature Investment Pathways, a collaboration between Te Puna Umanga Venture Taranaki and Wild for Taranaki received a Highly Commended award in the Inclusive Development & Wellbeing category at the awards held in Cromwell, November 5.
The initiative is laying the foundations for Taranaki to become a trusted destination for nature-positive investment and experiences, creating new economic opportunities while supporting long-term environmental restoration.
Venture Taranaki acting chief executive, Stacey Hitchcock, says the region’s natural environment is at the heart of what makes Taranaki distinctive as a visitor destination.
“From our maunga to our coastline and native forests, nature is a fundamental part of the visitor experience and what draws people here.”
“Visitors are increasingly seeking meaningful connections with nature and the places they visit, and opportunities to give back. This project is about building on that connection and creating sustainable investment and funding pathways that enable our visitor economy to contribute to the protection and enhancement of the very environment that makes Taranaki special.”
“This recognition demonstrates what’s possible when we look beyond traditional approaches to economic development, working collaboratively with complementary sectors around a shared ambition.”
The Nature Investment Pathways project is progressing two complementary areas of opportunity.
Firstly, Nature investment and nature credits to explore how conservation organisations, iwi, hapū and landowners can access new revenue streams through verified biodiversity outcomes and tourism pathways, reducing reliance on what is often limited, short-term funding.
The second area focuses on Ecotourism and developing higher-value visitor experiences that connect people with the natural environment of Taranaki, create opportunities for local businesses and communities, and contribute directly to environmental restoration and priorities.
Both areas are becoming increasingly intertwined as a collective approach to nature-positive outcomes is being formed with Taranaki values and aspirations at its core.
Wild for Taranaki general manager, Danielle Gibas, says the recognition is particularly meaningful for the region’s conservation community.
“Taranaki has an incredible network of conservation organisations, iwi, hapū and volunteers who have worked tirelessly to protect and restore our natural environment.”
“What excites us about this initiative is the opportunity to build on that work and create new ways for people and businesses to invest in nature, while ensuring the environmental benefits are genuine, measurable and lasting.”
“It’s still early days, but this recognition gives us confidence that we’re heading in the right direction and reinforces the potential for Taranaki to lead the way in developing a nature-positive economy.”
The level of engagement being seen from the Taranaki conservation sector, and industry at large, has already exceeded expectations. There is broad agreement that the sector needs to innovate not just in the approach to restoring the region’s taiao, but in how to support the passionate individuals and organisations who carry out this vital work.
The Inclusive Development & Wellbeing category award winner was Amotai from Auckland, who also took out the overall Supreme Award at the event. Amotai connects buyers with verified Māori and/or Pasifika-owned businesses, helping to diversify supply chains and create meaningful economic impact.
