In July, the Top of the South Marine Biosecurity Partnership welcomed a new coordination team to support the delivery of the Partnership's work across Te Tau Ihu and Greater Wellington. The Partnership brings together Nelson City Council, Tasman District Council, Marlborough District Council, Greater Wellington Regional Council and Biosecurity New Zealand, working together to help prevent the introduction and spread of marine pests, manage established pests, and respond quickly to new incursions.

The new team, led by Salt Ecology in Nelson, combines decades of experience in marine biosecurity. The Partnership coordinator is Christina Simkanin and she’s supported by experienced marine biosecurity scientists and specialist divers Barrie Forest, Peter Lawless, Thomas Scott-Simonds and Courtney Rayes. Together, the team brings expertise spanning marine pest surveillance, scientific research, vessel pathway management, policy development, technical advice, public engagement and project delivery. The team has strong local roots, with many members having worked alongside the Partnership for many years, bringing a deep understanding of the region's marine environment and the people who care for it.

Courtney Rayes completes surveillance on a pier in Wellington

Over the coming year, the team will be working with councils, iwi, marina operators, commercial and recreational marine users, industry and community groups to deliver surveillance, education and behaviour change initiatives that help protect the unique marine ecosystems of Te Tau Ihu. The Partnership looks forward to continuing these collaborative efforts and building on more than 15 years of successful regional cooperation. If you want to get in touch, email them at info@marinebiosecurity.co.nz.

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