Conservation in Crisis - National Hui Called for Endangered Species
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
A national hui bringing together iwi, communities, scientists, creatives and advocates will take place in Kirikiriroa this September, responding to the accelerating crisis facing Aotearoa’s most endangered taonga species and their habitats.
The Endangered Species National Hui 2026, hosted by Tāngaro Tuia te Ora – Endangered Species Foundation (ESF), will be held on 2–3 September at Wintec, Hamilton, and is focused on moving from collaboration and kōrero, through to collective action.
With over 3,700 native species officially listed as threatened or at risk, organisers say the hui comes at a pivotal moment.
“Many of our taonga species are right on the edge,” says Tawera Nikau, Co-Chair of Tāngaro Tuia te Ora – Endangered Species Foundation. “This hui is about facing that truth honestly and backing the people and solutions that are already making a difference. When iwi and communities lead, real, sustainable change happens.”
Across two days, the hui will centre Māori and community leadership, share proven restoration models, and strengthen collaboration across freshwater, land and marine ecosystems. Speakers include iwi leaders, rangatahi, scientists, artists and grassroots organisers working on the frontlines of conservation across the motu.
Emma Giesen, Co-Chair of ESF, says the hui is designed to empower people to act together.
“This isn’t another conference where we talk about the problems and go home,” says Giesen. “It’s about joining the dots between the amazing people and projects across the motu, connecting mātauranga Māori, science and community action, and giving people practical pathways to restore the mauri of our ecosystems. Collective action is how we turn the tide.”
The hui will prioritise rangatahi leadership, accessibility and manaakitanga, with subsidised and community ticket options available to ensure those closest to the kaupapa can attend.
“Our young people are already leading with courage and creativity,” says Nikau. “This hui creates space for their voices, because protecting taonga species is about the future they will inherit – and how we support rangatahi to lead the change ahead.”
The Endangered Species National Hui will feature keynote talks, panels, hands-on workshops, activation spaces and opportunities for participants to build ongoing collaborations beyond the event.
“When nature thrives, people thrive,” says Nikau. “This hui is about restoring hope, momentum and responsibility – together.”
Tickets and programme information:🔗 https://www.endangeredspecies.org.nz/hui-2026
ENDS
Media contact:
Natalie Jessup General Manager, Tāngaro Tuia te Ora – Endangered Species Foundation
