Estimates of appropriations

Vote Conservation - Environment Sector - Estimates 2020/21

Formats and related files

Vote Conservation#

APPROPRIATION MINISTER(S): Minister of Conservation (M16), Minister for Treaty of Waitangi Negotiations (M74)

APPROPRIATION ADMINISTRATOR: Department of Conservation

RESPONSIBLE MINISTER FOR DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION: Minister of Conservation

Overview of the Vote#

The Minister of Conservation is responsible for appropriations in the Vote for the 2020/21 financial year covering the following:

  • a total of nearly $264 million for the management of natural heritage including the maintenance, restoration and protection of ecosystems, habitats and species
  • a total of nearly $190 million for recreational facilities and services, and the management of business concessions
  • a total of over $38 million for working with communities to protect natural and historic resources
  • a total of nearly $23 million for the identification and implementation of protection for natural and historic places
  • a total of over $15 million for policy advice, statutory planning, and services to ministers and statutory bodies
  • a total of nearly $13 million for management services of natural and historic places, ongoing management and maintenance of the Moutua Gardens Reserve, and funding for projects for the Community Conservation Funds
  • a total of nearly $6 million for the protection and conservation management of historic heritage
  • a total of over $5 million for compensation payments, depreciation on crown property, plant and equipment, loss on disposal of crown property, plant and equipment, Matauranga Maori Fund, payment of rates on properties for concessionaires, provision for bad and doubtful debts, subscriptions to international organisations, vesting of reserves and the Waikaremoana Lakebed lease
  • a total of nearly $5 million for lifting the productivity potential of the regions through conservation-related projects
  • a total of over $3 million for services to control weed and animal pests on lands administered by the department in relation to regional pest management plans
  • a total of nearly $45 million for departmental capital expenditure regarding property, plant, equipment and intangible assets, and
  • a total of nearly $6 million for non-departmental capital expenditure regarding crown land acquisitions and the purchase and development of reserves.

The Minister of Conservation is also responsible for a multi-year appropriation of over $29 million from 2020/21 to 2024/25 to fund a predator free New Zealand by 2050.

The Minister of Conservation is also responsible for a capital injection of over $39 million to the Department of Conservation.

The Minister for Treaty of Waitangi Negotiations is responsible for an appropriation in the Vote for the 2020/21 financial year of $50,000 for the impairment of public conservation land to be transferred to iwi as part of Treaty of Waitangi Settlements.

Details of these appropriations are set out in Parts 2-4.

Details of Appropriations and Capital Injections#

Annual Appropriations and Forecast Permanent Appropriations#

  2019/20 2020/21
Titles and Scopes of Appropriations by Appropriation Type Final
Budgeted
$000
Estimated
Actual
$000
Budget
$000

Departmental Output Expenses

     

Conservation with the Community (M16)

This appropriation is limited to public awareness and educational services, and growing conservation through building partnerships with others, including iwi, councils, community groups, businesses, and individuals.
41,991 41,154 38,427

Crown Contribution to Regional Pest Management (M16)

This appropriation is limited to delivery of services to control weed and animal pests on lands administered by the Department of Conservation to meet statutory good neighbour obligations and negotiated outcomes of regional pest management plans.
3,195 3,170 3,312

Management of Historic Heritage (M16)

This appropriation is limited to the protection and conservation management of historic heritage.
5,852 5,737 5,978

Management of Natural Heritage (M16)

This appropriation is limited to maintaining, restoring and protecting ecosystems, habitats and species.
264,288 232,676 263,864

Management of Recreational Opportunities (M16)

This appropriation is limited to recreational facilities and services, and the management of business concessions.
193,639 185,164 189,924

Total Departmental Output Expenses

508,965 467,901 501,505

Departmental Capital Expenditure

     

Department of Conservation - Capital Expenditure PLA (M16)

This appropriation is limited to the purchase or development of assets by and for the use of the Department of Conservation, as authorised by section 24(1) of the Public Finance Act 1989.
53,085 53,085 44,821

Total Departmental Capital Expenditure

53,085 53,085 44,821

Non-Departmental Output Expenses

     

Community Conservation Funds (M16)

This appropriation is limited to grants: for community groups and private landowners to undertake work on public and private land; to provide private land managers with information and advice, or assistance with pest and weed control, fencing and other biodiversity management actions; and to support community biodiversity restoration initiatives.
6,770 2,839 11,992

Management Services - Natural and Historic Places (M16)

This appropriation is limited to management services for properties with historical or natural significance, including maintenance work, access for the public and management advice on covenanted properties.
906 906 916

Moutoa Gardens/Pakaitore (M16)

This appropriation is limited to the ongoing management and maintenance of the Moutoa Gardens Reserve.
33 33 23

Total Non-Departmental Output Expenses

7,709 3,778 12,931

Non-Departmental Other Expenses

     

Compensation Payments (M16)

This appropriation is limited to making obligatory compensation payments: when esplanade reserves are created, and upon vesting of coastal marine areas in the Crown.
60 60 60

Depreciation - Crown Property, Plant and Equipment (M16)

This appropriation is limited to the depreciation on Crown property, plant and equipment on Crown land administered by the Department of Conservation.
311 311 311

Impairment of Public Conservation Land (M74)

This appropriation is limited to the impairment in value of Public Conservation land to be transferred to iwi as part of Treaty of Waitangi Settlements.
1,587 50 50

Loss on Disposal of Crown Property, Plant and Equipment (M16)

This appropriation is limited to losses incurred on the disposal of Crown property, plant and equipment.
600 600 2,525

Matauranga Maori Fund (M16)

This appropriation is limited to making grants to support initiatives to protect traditional Maori knowledge relating to NZ's indigenous biodiversity.
1,447 455 837

Payment of Rates on Properties for Concessionaires (M16)

This appropriation is limited to the payment of rates: on reserves; conservation areas that are used for private or commercial purposes; and for services provided by a local authority.
839 839 839

Provision for Bad and Doubtful Debts (M16)

This appropriation is limited to the write-off of debts relating to Crown Revenue.
250 250 100

Subscriptions to International Organisations (M16)

This appropriation is limited to meeting annual subscriptions to international conservation organisations.
505 505 405

Vesting of Reserves (M16)

This appropriation is limited to the costs incurred in vesting Crown reserves in third parties, and Crown contributions towards the purchase of reserves by third parties.
5,024 150 150

Waikaremoana Lakebed Lease (M16)

This appropriation is limited to payments made under the Lake Waikaremoana Act 1971 for the lease of the lakebed and foreshore for conservation purposes.
241 241 241

Payment to Facilitate the Transfer of Assets as Part of a Treaty of Waitangi Settlement (M16)

This appropriation is limited to a payment to facilitate the transfer of the Waipahihi Stream Conservation Area as part of an historical Treaty of Waitangi settlement with Ngati Tuwharetoa.
2,000 - -

Total Non-Departmental Other Expenses

12,864 3,461 5,518

Non-Departmental Capital Expenditure

     

Crown Land Acquisitions (M16)

This appropriation is limited to the purchase of property for the Conservation Estate.
4,240 2,000 2,000

Purchase and Development of Reserves (M16)

This appropriation is limited to the purchase of conservation land, including the purchase of reserves, and any associated administration costs as provided for under the Reserves Act 1977.
3,387 3,387 3,600

Pike River Memorial and Museum (M16)

This appropriation is limited to the Pike River memorial, the interpretation centre and museum as historic assets.
921 - -

Total Non-Departmental Capital Expenditure

8,548 5,387 5,600

Multi-Category Expenses and Capital Expenditure

     

Identification and Implementation of Protection for Natural and Historic Places MCA (M16)

The single overarching purpose of this appropriation is to support the protection for natural and historic places.
16,878 7,143 22,945

Non-Departmental Output Expenses

     

Legal Protection Queen Elizabeth II

This category is limited to identification and implementation of protection of biodiversity on private land.
3,412 3,412 3,412

Nature Heritage Fund

This category is limited to the identification and implementation of protection of indigenous ecosystems on private land.
1,841 114 6,713

Nga Whenua Rahui

This category is limited to the identification and implementation of protection of indigenous ecosystems on Maori land.
10,455 3,060 8,820

South Island Landless Natives Act

This category is limited to the identification and implementation of protection of indigenous ecosystems in Maori ownership on South Island Landless Natives Act (SILNA) land.
1,170 557 4,000

Policy Advice, Statutory Planning, and Services to Ministers and Statutory Bodies MCA (M16)

The single overarching purpose of this appropriation is to provide policy advice and other services to Ministers and other parties.
13,217 13,036 15,147

Departmental Output Expenses

     

Policy Advice

This category is limited to the provision of advice (including second opinion advice and contributions to policy advice led by other agencies) to support decision-making by Ministers on government policy matters relating to conservation.
3,905 3,809 4,197

Statutory Planning, Services to Ministers and Statutory Bodies

This category is limited to statutory planning and the provision of services to Ministers (other than policy decision making responsibilities) and statutory bodies to enable them to discharge their portfolio and responsibilities.
9,312 9,227 10,950

Provincial Growth Fund - Conservation Projects MCA (M16)

The single overarching purpose of this appropriation is to lift the productivity potential of the regions through conservation-related projects.
1,003 503 4,600

Non-Departmental Other Expenses

     

Regional Projects

This category is limited to expenses incurred on conservation-related projects that contribute to regional development.
500 250 2,295

Non-Departmental Capital Expenditure

     

Infrastructure Projects

This category is limited to capital expenditure on conservation-related infrastructure projects that contribute to regional development.
503 253 2,305

Total Multi-Category Expenses and Capital Expenditure

31,098 20,682 42,692

Total Annual Appropriations and Forecast Permanent Appropriations

622,269 554,294 613,067

Multi-Year Appropriations#

Type, Title, Scope and Period of Appropriations Appropriations, Adjustments and Use $000

Non-Departmental Output Expenses

   

Predator Free New Zealand (M16)

This appropriation is limited to contributions towards activities aimed at controlling and eradicating mammalian pests in New Zealand by 2050.

Commences: 01 November 2016

Expires: 30 June 2020
Original Appropriation 23,504
Adjustments to 2018/19 -
Adjustments for 2019/20 19,500
Adjusted Appropriation 43,004
Actual to 2018/19 Year End 11,710
Estimated Actual for 2019/20 31,294
Estimate for 2020/21 -
Estimated Appropriation Remaining -

Predator Free New Zealand (M16)

This appropriation is limited to contributions towards activities aimed at controlling and eradicating mammalian pests in New Zealand by 2050.

Commences: 01 July 2020

Expires: 30 June 2025
Original Appropriation 29,070
Adjustments to 2018/19 -
Adjustments for 2019/20 -
Adjusted Appropriation 29,070
Actual to 2018/19 Year End -
Estimated Actual for 2019/20 -
Estimate for 2020/21 5,814
Estimated Appropriation Remaining 23,256

Total Annual Appropriations and Forecast Permanent Appropriations and Multi-Year Appropriations#

  2019/20 2020/21
  Final
Budgeted
$000
Estimated
Actual
$000
Budget
$000
Total Annual Appropriations and Forecast Permanent Appropriations 622,269 554,294 613,067
Total Forecast MYA Non-Departmental Output Expenses 31,294 31,294 5,814

Total Annual Appropriations and Forecast Permanent Appropriations and Multi-Year Appropriations

653,563 585,588 618,881

Capital Injection Authorisations#

  2019/20 2020/21
  Final Budgeted
$000
Estimated Actual
$000
Budget
$000
Department of Conservation - Capital Injection (M16) 41,022 41,022 39,090

Supporting Information#

Part 1 - Vote as a Whole#

1.1 - New Policy Initiatives#

Policy Initiative Appropriation 2019/20
Final Budgeted
$000
2020/21
Budget
$000
2021/22
Estimated
$000
2022/23
Estimated
$000
2023/24
Estimated
$000
Conservation-related projects through the Provincial Growth Fund

Management of Natural Heritage

585 2,853 - - -
Departmental Output Expenses          

Management of Recreational Opportunities

335 242 395 335 335
Departmental Output Expenses          

Departmental Capital Injection

7,405 5,115 - - -

Predator Free New Zealand

19,500 - - - -
Non-Departmental Output Expenses, Multi-Year Appropriation from 01 July 2016 to 30 June 2020.          
Tairawhiti and Forestry Worker Redeployment package

Management of Natural Heritage

2,602 - - - -
Departmental Output Expenses          

Management of Recreational Opportunities

1,298 - - - -
Departmental Output Expenses          
Remuneration cost pressures

Conservation with the Community

- 479 479 479 479
Departmental Output Expenses          

Crown Contribution to Regional Pest Management

- 21 21 21 21
Departmental Output Expenses          

Management of Historic Heritage

- 66 66 66 66
Departmental Output Expenses          

Management of Natural Heritage

- 1,702 1,702 1,702 1,702
Departmental Output Expenses          

Management of Recreational Opportunities

- 1,431 1,431 1,431 1,431
Departmental Output Expenses          

Policy Advice, Statutory Planning, and Services to Ministers and Statutory Bodies (MCA)

         

Policy Advice

- 30 30 30 30
Departmental Output Expenses          

Statutory Planning, Services to Ministers and Statutory Bodies

- 71 71 71 71
Departmental Output Expenses          
Implementing Ngai Tai Supreme Court Decisions

Policy Advice, Statutory Planning, and Services to Ministers and Statutory Bodies (MCA)

- 1,367 1,556 1,355 3,624

Statutory Planning, Services to Ministers and Statutory Bodies

         
Departmental Output Expenses          

Total Initiatives

  31,725 13,377 5,751 5,490 7,759

Summary of Financial Activity

  2015/16 2016/17 2017/18 2018/19 2019/20 2020/21 2021/22 2022/23 2023/24
  Actual
$000
Actual
$000
Actual
$000
Actual
$000
Final Budgeted
$000
Estimated
Actual
$000
Departmental
Transactions
Budget
$000
Non-
Departmental
Transactions
Budget
$000
Total
Budget
$000
Estimated
$000
Estimated
$000
Estimated
$000

Appropriations

                       
Output Expenses 365,941 384,725 385,571 427,673 547,968 509,880 501,505 18,745 520,250 518,804 520,605 528,136
Benefits or Related Expenses - - - - - - N/A - - - - -
Borrowing Expenses - - - - - - - - - - - -
Other Expenses 10,644 16,632 7,115 3,220 12,864 3,461 - 5,518 5,518 3,310 3,310 3,310
Capital Expenditure 18,139 20,204 30,234 35,674 61,633 58,472 44,821 5,600 50,421 46,079 44,604 43,134
Intelligence and Security Department Expenses and Capital Expenditure - - - - - - - N/A - - - -
Multi-Category Expenses and Capital Expenditure (MCA)                        
Output Expenses 21,899 18,404 18,172 21,923 30,095 20,237 15,147 22,945 38,092 26,467 26,266 28,535
Other Expenses - - - - 500 250 - 2,295 2,295 4,589 2,290 -
Capital Expenditure - - - - 503 253 N/A 2,305 2,305 4,610 2,300 -

Total Appropriations

416,623 439,965 441,092 488,490 653,563 592,553 561,473 57,408 618,881 603,859 599,375 603,115

Crown Revenue and Capital Receipts

                       
Tax Revenue - - - - - - N/A - - - - -
Non-Tax Revenue 31,387 27,225 26,944 30,726 28,973 28,973 N/A 28,494 28,494 28,269 28,269 28,269
Capital Receipts 3,483 258 452 534 3,800 3,800 N/A 3,800 3,800 2,800 2,800 2,800

Total Crown Revenue and Capital Receipts

34,870 27,483 27,396 31,260 32,773 32,773 N/A 32,294 32,294 31,069 31,069 31,069

Note - where restructuring of the vote has occurred then, to the extent practicable, prior years information has been restated as if the restructuring had occurred before the beginning of the period covered. In this instance Total Appropriations for the Budgeted and Estimated Actual year may not equal Total Annual Appropriations and Forecast Permanent Appropriations and Multi-Year Appropriations in the Details of Appropriations and Capital Injections.

The increase in Expenses reflects additional future spending on new policy initiatives by the current Government, including:

  • the transfer of funding from Vote Business, Science and Innovation to implement conservation-related projects through the Provincial Growth Fund ($40.467 million over ten years)
  • funding received for remuneration cost pressures ($3.800 million over four years), and
  • funding received for the implementation of Ngai Tai Supreme Court decisions ($7.902 million over four years).

Spending continues on the following policy initiatives by the current Government:

  • the introduction of the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy in 2019/20 ($232.361 million over four years, noting this is currently under review as part of the All of Government COVID-19 response)
  • the transfer of funding from Vote Business, Science and Innovation to implement conservation-related projects through the Provincial Growth Fund (Budget 2019: $25.926 million over four years)
  • funding received for improving the safety and security of conservation workers and volunteers (Budget 2019: $10.699 million over four years)
  • controlling and eradicating predators in priority ecosystems to reduce the extinction risk for threatened species by improving and protecting their habitats. It will also protect and increase biodiversity values on offshore islands (Budget 2018: $81.280 million over four years)
  • funding for other biodiversity programmes (freshwater, marine, and terrestrial, Budget 2018: $76 million over four years)
  • strengthening organisational capacity and capability by investing in and increasing organisational development, human resources and policy staff, and by ensuring that assets such as staff housing are safe and fit for purpose (Budget 2018: $16.240 million over four years)
  • managing the impacts of increasing numbers of visitors to public conservation land by increasing capacity in research and evaluation; regulatory, policy and economic analysis; strategic planning and performance; and regional collaboration (Budget 2018: $5.500 million over four years), and
  • protecting the unique landscapes and biodiversity values of the Mackenzie Basin (Budget 2018: $2.600 million over four years).

Spending continues on the following policy initiatives by the previous Government:

  • funding for pest control programmes targeted at sites with significant likelihood of extinction or serious decline in threatened species following prolific flowering of beech and other forest species (note funding received previously was specific to annual Mast events)
  • managing the kauri tree disease through the kauri dieback track upgrade programme
  • securing a long-term sustainable increase in New Zealand's kiwi population
  • tourism infrastructure and growth initiatives which support tourism and regional economic development, and
  • funding for the Crown Company Predator Free 2050 Ltd to help control and eradicate mammalian pests and develop more effective control techniques.

Part 2 - Details of Departmental Appropriations#

2.1 - Departmental Output Expenses#

Conservation with the Community (M16)

Scope of Appropriation
This appropriation is limited to public awareness and educational services, and growing conservation through building partnerships with others, including iwi, councils, community groups, businesses, and individuals.
Expenses and Revenue
  2019/20 2020/21
  Final Budgeted
$000
Estimated Actual
$000
Budget
$000
Total Appropriation 41,991 41,154 38,427
Revenue from the Crown 40,828 39,991 34,357
Revenue from Others 1,163 1,163 4,070
What is Intended to be Achieved with this Appropriation

This appropriation is intended to achieve the engagement of more people with conservation and increase their understanding of the benefits conservation provides. It is also intended to achieve conservation gains from building partnerships with others.

How Performance will be Assessed and End of Year Reporting Requirements
  2019/20 2020/21
Assessment of Performance Final Budgeted
Standard
Estimated
Actual
Budget
Standard

Number of workday equivalents contributed by people volunteering.

33,850 34,475 26,710

Number of partnerships run during the year.

460 477 417

Percentage of partners surveyed who rate their contribution to conservation as moderate or significant, with a target of 80%.

80% 92% 80%

Percentage of partnerships that involve tangata whenua, with a target of greater than 30% (number reported at year end).

30% 9% 30%
Education and Communication      

Number of knowledge and skill sharing (education) initiatives to be provided during year.

690 525 400

Percentage of participants surveyed who rate the initiative as partly effective or effective at meeting its objectives, with a target of 70%.

70% 91% 70%
End of Year Performance Reporting

Performance information for this appropriation will be reported by the Department of Conservation in the Annual Report.

Current and Past Policy Initiatives
Policy Initiative Year of
First
Impact
2019/20
Final Budgeted
$000
2020/21
Budget
$000
2021/22
Estimated
$000
2022/23
Estimated
$000
2023/24
Estimated
$000

Current Government

           
Remuneration cost pressures 2020/21 - 479 479 479 479
Enhancing biodiversity protection in the Mackenzie Basin 2018/19 820 820 160 160 160
Reasons for Change in Appropriation

The decrease in this appropriation for 2020/21 is mainly due to:

  • fiscally neutral adjustments of $5 million from other Departmental output expenses in 2019/20 to realign 2019/20 budgets with work plans based on forecasted expenditure (decrease)
  • net expense transfers of $999,000 to 2019/20 as a result of unexpected delays in engagement with iwi on treaty settlements and projects (decrease), and
  • decrease in funding for Treaty settlements implementation costs of $940,000 (decrease),

partly offset by:

  • increase in third party revenue forecast (mainly administration recoveries) from third parties of $2.907 million (increase), and
  • Budget 2020 additional funding received of $479,000 for remuneration cost pressures (increase).

Crown Contribution to Regional Pest Management (M16)

Scope of Appropriation
This appropriation is limited to delivery of services to control weed and animal pests on lands administered by the Department of Conservation to meet statutory good neighbour obligations and negotiated outcomes of regional pest management plans.
Expenses and Revenue
  2019/20 2020/21
  Final Budgeted
$000
Estimated Actual
$000
Budget
$000
Total Appropriation 3,195 3,170 3,312
Revenue from the Crown 3,191 3,166 3,212
Revenue from Others 4 4 100
What is Intended to be Achieved with this Appropriation

This appropriation is intended to achieve the weed and animal pest outcomes arising from good neighbour and regional pest management plan negotiations.

How Performance will be Assessed and End of Year Reporting Requirements
  2019/20 2020/21
Assessment of Performance Final Budgeted
Standard
Estimated
Actual
Budget
Standard
Regional Pest Management Strategies      

Number of regional pest management strategies with completed Crown exacerbator weed and pest programmes.

13 15 12
End of Year Performance Reporting

Performance information for this appropriation will be reported by the Department of Conservation in the Annual Report.

Current and Past Policy Initiatives
Policy Initiative Year of
First
Impact
2019/20
Final Budgeted
$000
2020/21
Budget
$000
2021/22
Estimated
$000
2022/23
Estimated
$000
2023/24
Estimated
$000

Current Government

           
Remuneration cost pressures 2020/21 - 21 21 21 21

Management of Historic Heritage (M16)

Scope of Appropriation
This appropriation is limited to the protection and conservation management of historic heritage.
Expenses and Revenue
  2019/20 2020/21
  Final Budgeted
$000
Estimated Actual
$000
Budget
$000
Total Appropriation 5,852 5,737 5,978
Revenue from the Crown 5,741 5,626 5,503
Revenue from Others 111 111 475
What is Intended to be Achieved with this Appropriation

This appropriation is intended to achieve the protection of New Zealand's history and bringing it to life for New Zealanders.

How Performance will be Assessed and End of Year Reporting Requirements
  2019/20 2020/21
Assessment of Performance Final Budgeted
Standard
Estimated
Actual
Budget
Standard
Historic and Cultural Heritage Restoration      

Number of historic heritage assets for which remedial work is completed to standard during the year.

6 5 11

Percentage of historic heritage assets for which regular maintenance work is on track to standard during the year, with a target of 75% (number reported at year end).

75% 76% 75%

Percentage of historic or cultural heritage assessment reports completed to standard during the year, with a target of 40% (number reported at year end).

40% 60% 40%
End of Year Performance Reporting

Performance information for this appropriation will be reported by the Department of Conservation in the Annual Report.

Current and Past Policy Initiatives
Policy Initiative Year of
First
Impact
2019/20
Final Budgeted
$000
2020/21
Budget
$000
2021/22
Estimated
$000
2022/23
Estimated
$000
2023/24
Estimated
$000

Current Government

           
Remuneration cost pressures 2020/21 - 66 66 66 66

Previous Government

           
Pike River Memorial Track and visitor assets 2016/17 142 142 142 142 142

Management of Natural Heritage (M16)

Scope of Appropriation
This appropriation is limited to maintaining, restoring and protecting ecosystems, habitats and species.
Expenses and Revenue
  2019/20 2020/21
  Final Budgeted
$000
Estimated Actual
$000
Budget
$000
Total Appropriation 264,288 232,676 263,864
Revenue from the Crown 242,239 210,627 239,463
Revenue from Others 22,049 22,049 24,401
Components of the Appropriation
  2019/20 2020/21
  Final Budgeted
$000
Estimated Actual
$000
Budget
$000
Full range of NZ's ecosystems is conserved to a healthy functioning state 126,950 113,749 122,520
Public conservation lands, waters and species are held now and for future generations 82,937 82,858 84,274
Nationally threatened species are conserved to ensure persistence 21,303 19,903 22,348
Other operational programmes including providing support, developing tools and undertaking research and evaluation 33,098 30,923 34,722
Total 264,288 247,433 263,864
What is Intended to be Achieved with this Appropriation

This appropriation is intended to achieve the maintenance and restoration of the diversity of New Zealand's natural heritage.

How Performance will be Assessed and End of Year Reporting Requirements
  2019/20 2020/21
Assessment of Performance Final Budgeted
Standard
Estimated
Actual
Budget
Standard
Pest and Weed Control      

Hectares of land under sustained rat control.

1,353,600 1,380,000 1,390,000

Hectares of land receiving treatment for rats and mustelids.

1,418,400 1,071,523 889,400 - 1,087,200

Hectares of land under sustained possum control.

1,563,000 1,576,400 1,576,600

Hectares of land receiving treatment for possums.

256,000 132,154 211,700 - 276,400

Hectares of land under sustained deer control.

980,000 998,000 998,000

Hectares of land receiving treatment for deer.

401,500 252,233 152,900 - 304,800

Hectares of land under sustained goat control.

2,200,000 2,169,400 2,169,400

Hectares of land receiving treatment for goats.

1,126,700 1,044,304 869,000 - 1,062,100

Number of island biosecurity programmes where a pest-free status has been maintained.

58 55 55

Hectares of land under sustained weed control using a site-led approach.

909,600 879,300 880,400

Hectares of land receiving treatment for weeds using a site-led approach.

288,900 228,231 174,600 - 213,400

Hectares of land receiving treatment for wilding conifers using a site-led approach.

269,500 240,618 78,100 - 95,600

Hectares of land under sustained wilding conifer control.

1,797,000 1,529,700 1,529,700
Ecosystems and Species Management      

Number of optimised ecosystem prescriptions providing active management of ecosystems.

500 500 580

Number of threatened species managed for persistence.

350 350 235

Number of species under active management to ensure local security.

404 494 499

Number of species under active management to improve understanding.

275 275 263
International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL)      

IVL conservation project portfolios created in accordance with IVL Investment plan

New measure New measure Meets

Regular reporting on IVL conservation investments made available to levy payers and stakeholders

New measure New measure Meets
End of Year Performance Reporting

Performance information for this appropriation will be reported by the Department of Conservation in the Annual Report.

Current and Past Policy Initiatives
Policy Initiative Year of
First
Impact
2019/20
Final Budgeted
$000
2020/21
Budget
$000
2021/22
Estimated
$000
2022/23
Estimated
$000
2023/24
Estimated
$000

Current Government

           
Tairawhiti and Forestry Worker Redeployment package 2019/20 2,602 - - - -
Conservation-related projects through the Provincial Growth Fund 2019/20 585 2,853 - - -
Remuneration cost pressures 2020/21 - 1,702 1,702 1,702 1,702
International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy 2019/20 42,568 44,523 46,473 48,443 50,354
Improving the safety and security of conservation workers and volunteers 2019/20 1,378 1,323 1,326 1,323 1,323
Biodiversity (freshwater, marine and terrestrial) 2018/19 15,747 21,924 31,160 31,160 31,160
Enhancing biodiversity by controlling and eradicating predators 2018/19 30,400 23,400 23,080 23,080 23,080
Strengthening organisational capability and capacity 2018/19 1,560 1,560 1,560 1,560 1,560
Reasons for Change in Appropriation

The decrease in this appropriation for 2020/21 is mainly due to:

  • decrease of $10.400 million relating to $5.200 million brought forward from 2020/21 to 2019/20 due to the bringing forward of 2020 winter pest control operations in relation to the Tiakina Nga Manu Battle for our Birds programme (decrease)
  • Budget 2018 decreased funding of $7 million in 2020/21 for the controlling and eradicating predators initiative, reflecting a non-mast event year (decrease)
  • Conservation Services Programme funding of $2.856 million for 2019/20 only (decrease)
  • funding of $2.602 million received in 2019/20 from the COVID-19 economic response package for Tairawhiti (decrease), and
  • funding of $509,000 in 2019/20 for biodiversity expenditure funded from the West Coast mining compensation received, noting an uplift is expected during 2020/21 (decrease),

partly offset by:

  • Budget 2018 increased funding of $6.177 million in 2020/21 for biodiversity (freshwater, marine and terrestrial) (increase)
  • increase of $5.990 million relating to funding brought forward from 2019/20 to 2018/19, for the Tiakina Nga Manu Battle for our Birds programme in response to the 2018/19 mega Beech Mast event (increase)
  • net fiscally neutral adjustments of $2.500 million to other Departmental output expenses in 2019/20 to realign budgets to updated work plans (increase)
  • Budget 2020 additional funding received of $2.268 million received from the Provincial Growth Fund for the Sentinel A Nuku Project (increase)
  • Budget 2019 increased funding of $1.955 million in 2020/21 from the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (note currently under review as part of the All of Government COVID19 response) (increase)
  • Budget 2020 additional funding received of $1.702 million for remuneration cost pressures (increase), and
  • an increase in third party revenue forecast of $1.302 million mostly from sponsorships/partnerships (increase).

Management of Recreational Opportunities (M16)

Scope of Appropriation
This appropriation is limited to recreational facilities and services, and the management of business concessions.
Expenses and Revenue
  2019/20 2020/21
  Final Budgeted
$000
Estimated Actual
$000
Budget
$000
Total Appropriation 193,639 185,164 189,924
Revenue from the Crown 154,502 146,027 157,147
Revenue from Others 37,137 37,137 30,777
Components of the Appropriation
  2019/20 2020/21
  Final Budgeted
$000
Estimated Actual
$000
Budget
$000
Icon sites are NZ's national outdoor treasures, developed to support the growth of domestic and international tourism 49,013 48,549 48,074
Gateway destinations are developed to introduce new participants and to grow recreation in the outdoors 31,347 31,050 30,746
Accessing public conservation land including managing facilities at destinations that support visitor opportunities 30,341 30,053 29,759
Locally treasured destinations are managed to grow community connection with, and use of, their locally important places 28,588 28,316 28,039
Locally treasured destinations are managed to grow community connection with, and use of, their locally important places 22,685 22,469 22,249
Other recreational activities 31,665 31,364 31,057
Total 193,639 191,801 189,924
What is Intended to be Achieved with this Appropriation

This appropriation is intended to achieve increased participation of people in recreation.

How Performance will be Assessed and End of Year Reporting Requirements
  2019/20 2020/21
Assessment of Performance Final Budgeted
Standard
Estimated
Actual
Budget
Standard
Asset Management      

Percentage of huts meeting required service standard, with a target of 90% to standard (number reported at year end).

90% 90% 90%

Percentage of tracks meeting required service standard in each Visitor Group, with a target of 45% to standard, (kilometres reported at year end).

45% 45% 45%

Percentage of structures meeting the required service standard, with a target of 95%, (number reported at year end).

95% 95% 95%
Recreation Concessions      

Number of one-off recreation concessions managed.

80 259 80

Number of longer-term recreation concession permits, licences, leases and easements managed.

1,100 1,082 1,100

Percentage of recreation longer-term concession permits, licenses, leases, and easements monitored annually, with a target of 15% of the number managed.

15% 27% 15%
Other Resource Use Concessions      

Number of one-off other resource use concessions managed.

120 209 120

Number of longer-term other resource use concession permits, licences, leases and easements managed.

3,300 3,481 3,300

Percentage of other longer-term resource use concessions monitored annually, with a target of 15% of the number managed.

15% 9% 15%
End of Year Performance Reporting

Performance information for this appropriation will be reported by the Department of Conservation in the Annual Report.

Current and Past Policy Initiatives
Policy Initiative Year of
First
Impact
2019/20
Final Budgeted
$000
2020/21
Budget
$000
2021/22
Estimated
$000
2022/23
Estimated
$000
2023/24
Estimated
$000

Current Government

           
Remuneration cost pressures 2020/21 - 1,431 1,431 1,431 1,431
Tairawhiti and Forestry Worker Redeployment package 2019/20 1,298 - - - -
Conservation-related projects through the Provincial Growth Fund 2019/20 335 242 395 335 335
Managing impacts of increasing visitors to public conservation land 2019/20 1,500 1,500 1,500 1,500 1,500
Improving the safety and security of conservation workers and volunteers 2018/19 1,377 1,323 1,326 1,323 1,323
Strengthening organisational capability and capacity 2018/19 1,270 1,270 1,270 1,270 1,270
Previous Government            
Tourism infrastructure - maintenance 2017/18 10,624 9,987 9,987 9,987 9,987
Tourism growth initiative - new walks 2017/18 3,436 4,238 4,238 4,238 4,238
Reasons for Change in Appropriation

The decrease in this appropriation for 2020/21 is mainly due to:

  • a reduction in third party revenue forecast of $7.410 million mainly from Great Walks pass sales (differential pricing trial post 2019/20 is under review) (decrease)
  • reallocation of funding received from the Provincial Growth Fund for Taranaki Crossing from 2020/21 to outyears of $2.948 million (decrease)
  • additional Crown concessions revenue of $1.745 million received in 2019/20 for recreational services (decrease), and
  • funding of $1.298 million received in 2019/20 from the Tairawhiti and Forestry Worker Redeployment package (decrease),

partly offset by:

  • additional funding received in 2020/21 of $2.675 million from the Provincial Growth Fund (increase)
  • fiscally neutral adjustments of $2.500 million to other Departmental output expenses in 2019/20 to realign 2019/20 budgets with work plans based on forecasted expenditure (increase), and
  • Budget 2020 additional funding received of $1.431 million for remuneration cost pressures (increase).

2.3 - Departmental Capital Expenditure and Capital Injections#

Department of Conservation - Capital Expenditure PLA (M16)

Scope of Appropriation
This appropriation is limited to the purchase or development of assets by and for the use of the Department of Conservation, as authorised by section 24(1) of the Public Finance Act 1989.
Capital Expenditure
  2019/20 2020/21
  Final Budgeted
$000
Estimated Actual
$000
Budget
$000
Forests/Agricultural - - -
Land 2,000 2,000 -
Property, Plant and Equipment 50,085 50,085 39,821
Intangibles 1,000 1,000 5,000
Other - - -

Total Appropriation

53,085 53,085 44,821
What is Intended to be Achieved with this Appropriation

This appropriation is intended to achieve the renewal and replacement of life-expired assets in support of the delivery of the Department of Conservation services.

How Performance will be Assessed and End of Year Reporting Requirements

Performance will be assessed through the monitoring of expenditure to ensure that it is in accordance with the Department of Conservation's intentions to enhance asset management.

End of Year Performance Reporting

Performance information for capital expenditure will be reported by the Department of Conservation in the Annual Report.

Reasons for Change in Appropriation

The decrease in this appropriation for 2020/21 is mainly due to:

  • one off funding received in 2019/20 only for the Budget 2019 safety, security and compliance initiative of $7.300 million (decrease), and
  • reduced funding from the Provincial Growth Fund of $1.465 million (decrease),

partly offset by:

  • increase in funding received for Budget 2017 Tourism initiative of $3.370 million (increase).
Capital Injections and Movements in Departmental Net Assets
Department of Conservation
Details of Net Asset Schedule 2019/20
Estimated Actual
$000
2020/21
Projected
$000
Explanation of Projected Movements in 2020/21
Opening Balance 648,867 687,889  
Capital Injections 41,022 39,090 The projected capital injection is made up of the following components: visitor assets ($14.432 million), tourism initiatives ($12.634 million), the transfer of funding from Vote Business, Science and Innovation to implement conservation-related projects through the Provincial Growth Fund ($6.587 million), transfers from Land Information New Zealand (LINZ) arising from tenure reviews ($5.120 million) and on-going injections ($317,000) relating to previous cabinet decisions such as intensive integrated biodiversity management at new sites on Conservation land, Waikato River co-management and treaty settlement implementation costs.
Capital Withdrawals - -  
Surplus to be Retained (Deficit Incurred) (2,000) (2,000)  
Other Movements - -  

Closing Balance

687,889 724,979  

Part 3 - Details of Non-Departmental Appropriations#

3.1 - Non-Departmental Output Expenses#

Community Conservation Funds (M16)

Scope of Appropriation
This appropriation is limited to grants: for community groups and private landowners to undertake work on public and private land; to provide private land managers with information and advice, or assistance with pest and weed control, fencing and other biodiversity management actions; and to support community biodiversity restoration initiatives.
Expenses
  2019/20 2020/21
  Final Budgeted
$000
Estimated Actual
$000
Budget
$000
Total Appropriation 6,770 2,839 11,992
What is Intended to be Achieved with this Appropriation

This appropriation is intended to achieve support for private and community pest, weed and biodiversity restoration initiatives.

How Performance will be Assessed and End of Year Reporting Requirements
  2019/20 2020/21
Assessment of Performance Final Budgeted
Standard
Estimated
Actual
Budget
Standard

Percentage of projects funded that meet deed and reporting standards, with a target of 95%.

95% 95% 95%
End of Year Performance Reporting

Performance information for this appropriation will be reported by the Minister of Conservation in the Vote Conservation Non-Departmental Appropriations report.

Service Providers
Provider 2019/20
Final Budgeted
$000
2019/20
Estimated Actual
$000
2020/21
Budget
$000
Expiry of
Resourcing
Commitment

Non-Government Organisations

       
Community Conservation groups 6,770 2,839 11,992 Ongoing
Reasons for Change in Appropriation

The increase in this appropriation for 2020/21 is mainly due to expense transfers from 2019/20 to 2020/21 due to the delay between the commitment of expenditure and completion of projects due to the private landowner / community group involvement in projects and also unplanned delays including the lack of volunteer availability to complete project setup and implementation and unfavourable weather events impacting seasonal planting and pest management cycles.

Management Services - Natural and Historic Places (M16)

Scope of Appropriation
This appropriation is limited to management services for properties with historical or natural significance, including maintenance work, access for the public and management advice on covenanted properties.
Expenses
  2019/20 2020/21
  Final Budgeted
$000
Estimated Actual
$000
Budget
$000
Total Appropriation 906 906 916
What is Intended to be Achieved with this Appropriation

This appropriation is intended to achieve on-going maintenance and access for the public to properties with historical or natural significance.

How Performance will be Assessed and End of Year Reporting Requirements

An exemption was granted under s15D(2)(b)(iii) of the PFA, as the amount is less than $5 million.

Service Providers
Provider 2019/20
Final Budgeted
$000
2019/20
Estimated Actual
$000
2020/21
Budget
$000
Expiry of
Resourcing
Commitment

Non-Government Organisations

       
Property maintenance, security and structural review services 906 906 916 Ongoing
Current and Past Policy Initiatives
Policy Initiative Year of
First
Impact
2019/20
Final Budgeted
$000
2020/21
Budget
$000
2021/22
Estimated
$000
2022/23
Estimated
$000
2023/24
Estimated
$000

Current Government

           
Reprioritisation of funding - historic property maintenance 2019/20 (250) (250) (250) (250) (250)

Moutoa Gardens/Pakaitore (M16)

Scope of Appropriation
This appropriation is limited to the ongoing management and maintenance of the Moutoa Gardens Reserve.
Expenses
  2019/20 2020/21
  Final Budgeted
$000
Estimated Actual
$000
Budget
$000
Total Appropriation 33 33 23
What is Intended to be Achieved with this Appropriation

This appropriation is intended to achieve the ongoing maintenance of Moutoa Gardens Reserve.

How Performance will be Assessed and End of Year Reporting Requirements

An exemption was granted under s15D(2)(b)(iii) of the PFA, as the amount is less than $5 million.

Service Providers
Provider 2019/20
Final Budgeted
$000
2019/20
Estimated Actual
$000
2020/21
Budget
$000
Expiry of
Resourcing
Commitment
Moutoa/Pakaitore Historic Reserve Board 33 33 23 Ongoing
Reasons for Change in Appropriation

The decrease in this appropriation for 2020/21 is due to the fact that this appropriation was increased in 2019/20 only, in order to fund the increase in purchase agreement between the Crown and the Pakaitore/Moutoa Gardens Historic Reserve Board.

Predator Free New Zealand (M16)

Scope of Appropriation and Expenses
Type, Title, Scope and Period of Appropriations Appropriations, Adjustments and Use $000

Predator Free New Zealand (M16)

This appropriation is limited to contributions towards activities aimed at controlling and eradicating mammalian pests in New Zealand by 2050.

Commences: 01 July 2020

Expires: 30 June 2025
Original Appropriation 29,070
Adjustments to 2018/19 -
Adjustments for 2019/20 -
Adjusted Appropriation 29,070
Actual to 2018/19 Year End -
Estimated Actual for 2019/20 -
Estimate for 2020/21 5,814
Estimated Appropriation Remaining 23,256
What is Intended to be Achieved with this Appropriation

This appropriation is intended to achieve a predator free New Zealand by 2050.

How Performance will be Assessed and End of Year Reporting Requirements
  2019/20 2020/21
Assessment of Performance Final Budgeted
Standard
Estimated
Actual
Budget
Standard

The predator free programme is on track to meet the Predator Free Trust disbursement milestones.

Meets Meets Meets

The predator free programme is on track to meet funding allocations for tools resulting from the predator research priorities.

Meets Meets Meets
End of Year Performance Reporting

Performance information for this appropriation will be reported the Minister of Conservation in the Vote Conservation Non-Departmental Appropriations report.

Service Providers
Provider 2019/20
Final Budgeted
$000
2019/20
Estimated Actual
$000
2020/21
Budget
$000
Expiry of
Resourcing
Commitment

Crown Company

       
Predator Free 2050 Ltd - - 5,814 30 June 2025
Reasons for Change in Appropriation

The increase in this appropriation is due to it being a new multi-year appropriation from 1 July 2020. The balance remaining in the previous multi-year appropriation expiring 30 June 2020 will be transferred across to this new appropriation once the year-end results for 2019/20 have been audited.

3.4 - Non-Departmental Other Expenses#

Compensation Payments (M16)

Scope of Appropriation
This appropriation is limited to making obligatory compensation payments: when esplanade reserves are created, and upon vesting of coastal marine areas in the Crown.
Expenses
  2019/20 2020/21
  Final Budgeted
$000
Estimated Actual
$000
Budget
$000
Total Appropriation 60 60 60
What is Intended to be Achieved with this Appropriation

This appropriation is intended to achieve the Crown's legislative obligations when esplanade reserves are created under section 289 of the Local Government Act 1974 and when coastal marine areas are vested.

How Performance will be Assessed and End of Year Reporting Requirements

An exemption was granted under s15D(2)(b)(iii) of the PFA, as the amount is less than $5 million.

Depreciation - Crown Property, Plant and Equipment (M16)

Scope of Appropriation
This appropriation is limited to the depreciation on Crown property, plant and equipment on Crown land administered by the Department of Conservation.
Expenses
  2019/20 2020/21
  Final Budgeted
$000
Estimated Actual
$000
Budget
$000
Total Appropriation 311 311 311
What is Intended to be Achieved with this Appropriation

This appropriation is intended to achieve the maintenance of property, plant and equipment on Crown land administered by the Department of Conservation.

How Performance will be Assessed and End of Year Reporting Requirements

An exemption was granted under s15D(2)(b)(ii) of the PFA, as additional performance information is unlikely to be informative because this appropriation is solely for payment of depreciation. Performance information relating to the management of Crown assets is provided under the Departmental output expense appropriation Management of Recreational Opportunities.

Impairment of Public Conservation Land (M74)

Scope of Appropriation
This appropriation is limited to the impairment in value of Public Conservation land to be transferred to iwi as part of Treaty of Waitangi Settlements.
Expenses
  2019/20 2020/21
  Final Budgeted
$000
Estimated Actual
$000
Budget
$000
Total Appropriation 1,587 50 50
What is Intended to be Achieved with this Appropriation

This appropriation is intended to achieve the provision for the impairment in value of Public Conservation land as part of Treaty of Waitangi Settlements.

How Performance will be Assessed and End of Year Reporting Requirements

An exemption was granted under s15D(2)(b)(iii) of the PFA, as the amount is less than $5 million.

Reasons for Change in Appropriation

The decrease in this appropriation for 2020/21 is due to a decrease in the write-down of land subject to Treaty settlements in 2019/20.

Loss on Disposal of Crown Property, Plant and Equipment (M16)

Scope of Appropriation
This appropriation is limited to losses incurred on the disposal of Crown property, plant and equipment.
Expenses
  2019/20 2020/21
  Final Budgeted
$000
Estimated Actual
$000
Budget
$000
Total Appropriation 600 600 2,525
What is Intended to be Achieved with this Appropriation

This appropriation is intended to achieve the provision for losses incurred on the disposal of Crown property, plant and equipment.

How Performance will be Assessed and End of Year Reporting Requirements

An exemption was granted under s15D(2)(b)(iii) of the PFA, as the amount is less than $5 million.

Reasons for Change in Appropriation

The increase in this appropriation for 2020/21 is due to an expense transfer of $1.925 million from 2019/20 pending enactment of Waitangi Endowment Forest legislation.

Matauranga Maori Fund (M16)

Scope of Appropriation
This appropriation is limited to making grants to support initiatives to protect traditional Maori knowledge relating to NZ's indigenous biodiversity.
Expenses
  2019/20 2020/21
  Final Budgeted
$000
Estimated Actual
$000
Budget
$000
Total Appropriation 1,447 455 837
What is Intended to be Achieved with this Appropriation

This appropriation is intended to achieve support for indigenous initiatives in the revival, use and retention of traditional Maori knowledge and practices in biodiversity management, and to promote biodiversity and ensure traditional knowledge and practices of Maori are respected and preserved in the management of our biodiversity and natural resources.

How Performance will be Assessed and End of Year Reporting Requirements

An exemption was granted under s15D(2)(b)(iii) of the PFA, as the amount is less than $5 million.

Service Providers
Provider 2019/20
Final Budgeted
$000
2019/20
Estimated Actual
$000
2020/21
Budget
$000
Expiry of
Resourcing
Commitment

Non-Government Organisations

       
Hapu and iwi groups 1,447 455 837 Ongoing
Reasons for Change in Appropriation

The decrease in this appropriation for 2020/21 is due to net expense transfers to 2019/20 required for unexpected delays in knowledge collection, conducting interviews, research and reporting.

Payment of Rates on Properties for Concessionaires (M16)

Scope of Appropriation
This appropriation is limited to the payment of rates: on reserves; conservation areas that are used for private or commercial purposes; and for services provided by a local authority.
Expenses
  2019/20 2020/21
  Final Budgeted
$000
Estimated Actual
$000
Budget
$000
Total Appropriation 839 839 839
What is Intended to be Achieved with this Appropriation

This appropriation is intended to achieve the Crown's obligations for rates on conservation land.

How Performance will be Assessed and End of Year Reporting Requirements

An exemption was granted under s15D(2)(b)(iii) of the PFA, as the amount is less than $5 million.

Service Providers
Provider 2019/20
Final Budgeted
$000
2019/20
Estimated Actual
$000
2020/21
Budget
$000
Expiry of
Resourcing
Commitment

Non-Government Organisations

       
Local Authorities 839 839 839 Ongoing

Provision for Bad and Doubtful Debts (M16)

Scope of Appropriation
This appropriation is limited to the write-off of debts relating to Crown Revenue.
Expenses
  2019/20 2020/21
  Final Budgeted
$000
Estimated Actual
$000
Budget
$000
Total Appropriation 250 250 100
What is Intended to be Achieved with this Appropriation

This appropriation is intended to achieve the provision for bad debts against Crown revenue.

How Performance will be Assessed and End of Year Reporting Requirements

An exemption was granted under s15D(2)(b)(iii) of the PFA, as the amount is less than $5 million.

Reasons for Change in Appropriation

The decrease in this appropriation for 2020/21 is due to increased possible debtor write offs in 2019/20 only.

Subscriptions to International Organisations (M16)

Scope of Appropriation
This appropriation is limited to meeting annual subscriptions to international conservation organisations.
Expenses
  2019/20 2020/21
  Final Budgeted
$000
Estimated Actual
$000
Budget
$000
Total Appropriation 505 505 405
What is Intended to be Achieved with this Appropriation

This appropriation is intended to achieve New Zealand's interests in international conservation issues.

How Performance will be Assessed and End of Year Reporting Requirements

An exemption was granted under s15D(2)(b)(iii) of the PFA, as the amount is less than $5 million.

Service Providers
Provider 2019/20
Final Budgeted
$000
2019/20
Estimated Actual
$000
2020/21
Budget
$000
Expiry of
Resourcing
Commitment

Non-Government Organisations

       
International conservation organisations 505 505 405 Ongoing
Reasons for Change in Appropriation

The decrease in this appropriation for 2020/21 is due to increased charges from all of the international organisations and the requirement to pay arrears to two of the organisations in 2019/20.

Vesting of Reserves (M16)

Scope of Appropriation
This appropriation is limited to the costs incurred in vesting Crown reserves in third parties, and Crown contributions towards the purchase of reserves by third parties.
Expenses
  2019/20 2020/21
  Final Budgeted
$000
Estimated Actual
$000
Budget
$000
Total Appropriation 5,024 150 150
What is Intended to be Achieved with this Appropriation

This appropriation is intended to achieve the provision for the protection of natural and historic places through vesting Crown reserves with local authorities and other parties.

How Performance will be Assessed and End of Year Reporting Requirements

An exemption was granted under s15D(2)(b)(iii) of the PFA, as the amount is less than $5 million.

Service Providers
Provider 2019/20
Final Budgeted
$000
2019/20
Estimated Actual
$000
2020/21
Budget
$000
Expiry of
Resourcing
Commitment

Non-Government Organisations

       
Local authorities 5,024 4,239 150 Ongoing
Reasons for Change in Appropriation

The decrease in this appropriation for 2020/21 is due to the reduced number of parcels of public conservation land to be vested to third parties.

Waikaremoana Lakebed Lease (M16)

Scope of Appropriation
This appropriation is limited to payments made under the Lake Waikaremoana Act 1971 for the lease of the lakebed and foreshore for conservation purposes.
Expenses
  2019/20 2020/21
  Final Budgeted
$000
Estimated Actual
$000
Budget
$000
Total Appropriation 241 241 241
What is Intended to be Achieved with this Appropriation

This appropriation is intended to achieve the provision for access to Lake Waikaremoana for conservation purposes.

How Performance will be Assessed and End of Year Reporting Requirements

An exemption was granted under s15D(2)(b)(iii) of the PFA, as the amount is less than $5 million.

3.5 - Non-Departmental Capital Expenditure#

Crown Land Acquisitions (M16)

Scope of Appropriation
This appropriation is limited to the purchase of property for the Conservation Estate.
Capital Expenditure
  2019/20 2020/21
  Final Budgeted
$000
Estimated Actual
$000
Budget
$000
Total Appropriation 4,240 2,000 2,000
What is Intended to be Achieved with this Appropriation

This appropriation is intended to achieve the protection of heritage values on acquired or leasehold land.

How Performance will be Assessed and End of Year Reporting Requirements

An exemption was granted under s15D(2)(b)(iii) of the PFA, as the amount is less than $15 million.

Reasons for Change in Appropriation

The decrease in this appropriation for 2020/21 is due to the expected completion of the Redcliffs Park and School land exchange in 2019/20 following the Christchurch earthquakes.

Purchase and Development of Reserves (M16)

Scope of Appropriation
This appropriation is limited to the purchase of conservation land, including the purchase of reserves, and any associated administration costs as provided for under the Reserves Act 1977.
Capital Expenditure
  2019/20 2020/21
  Final Budgeted
$000
Estimated Actual
$000
Budget
$000
Total Appropriation 3,387 3,387 3,600
What is Intended to be Achieved with this Appropriation

This appropriation is intended to achieve the protection of heritage values by purchasing land for conservation purposes.

How Performance will be Assessed and End of Year Reporting Requirements

An exemption was granted under s15D(2)(b)(iii) of the PFA, as the amount is less than $15 million.

Part 4 - Details of Multi-Category Expenses and Capital Expenditure#

Multi-Category Expenses and Capital Expenditure#

Identification and Implementation of Protection for Natural and Historic Places (M16)

Overarching Purpose Statement
The single overarching purpose of this appropriation is to support the protection for natural and historic places.
Scope of Appropriation
Non-Departmental Output Expenses
Legal Protection Queen Elizabeth II
This category is limited to identification and implementation of protection of biodiversity on private land.
Nature Heritage Fund
This category is limited to the identification and implementation of protection of indigenous ecosystems on private land.
Nga Whenua Rahui
This category is limited to the identification and implementation of protection of indigenous ecosystems on Maori land.
South Island Landless Natives Act
This category is limited to the identification and implementation of protection of indigenous ecosystems in Maori ownership on South Island Landless Natives Act (SILNA) land.
Expenses, Revenue and Capital Expenditure
  2019/20 2020/21
  Final Budgeted
$000
Estimated Actual
$000
Budget
$000

Total Appropriation

16,878 7,143 22,945

Non-Departmental Output Expenses

     
Legal Protection Queen Elizabeth II 3,412 3,412 3,412
Nature Heritage Fund 1,841 114 6,713
Nga Whenua Rahui 10,455 3,060 8,820
South Island Landless Natives Act 1,170 557 4,000
What is Intended to be Achieved with this Appropriation

This appropriation is intended to achieve identification and protection of biodiversity and indigenous ecosystems on private, Maori and South Island Landless Natives Act land.

How Performance will be Assessed for this Appropriation

The Department will monitor the ongoing achievement of the identification and protection of biodiversity and indigenous ecosystems on private, Maori and South Island Landless Natives Act land.

What is Intended to be Achieved with each Category and How Performance will be Assessed
  2019/20 2020/21
Assessment of Performance Final Budgeted
Standard
Estimated
Actual
Budget
Standard
Legal Protection Queen Elizabeth II      

This category is intended to achieve the identification and implementation of protection of biodiversity on private land.

     

An exemption was granted under s15D(2)(b)(iii) of the PFA, as the amount of Legal Protection Queen Elizabeth II is less than $5 million.

Exempted Exempted Exempted
Nature Heritage Fund      

This category is intended to achieve the identification and implementation of protection of indigenous ecosystems on private land.

     

Number of successful purchases.

2 2 3
Nga Whenua Rahui      

This category is intended to achieve identification and implementation of protection of indigenous ecosystems on Maori land.

     

Number of restoration programmes undertaken that meet the criteria for success set out in their programme plan.

12 13 10

Hectares of land receiving treatment for possums.

21,000 36,409 36,409

Number of possum operations undertaken that meet their targets for operational success.

12 15 15

Hectares of land receiving treatment for goats.

135,149 107,688 107,688

Number of other terrestrial animal pest operations undertaken that meet the criteria for success set out in their programme plan.

9 9 9

Number of acutely threatened species that will have improved security for one or more populations as a result of active species conservation programmes.

4 4 6

Number of agreements where Biodiversity Impact Monitoring is undertaken to measure the effectiveness of the agreement (replaced by new measure below).

40 - -

Number of agreements where Biodiversity Outcome Monitoring is undertaken to measure the effectiveness of the agreement.

New measure 5 5

Hectares of land receiving Biodiversity Impact Monitoring to measure the effectiveness of the agreement (replaced by new measure below).

25,000 - -

Hectares of land receiving Biodiversity Outcome Monitoring to measure the effectiveness of the agreement.

New measure 10,100 10,100

Number of kawenata (covenants) approved in each of the 3 most threatened LENZ environments.

Reported at year end Reported at year end Reported at year end
South Island Landless Natives Act      

This category is intended to achieve the identification and implementation of protection of indigenous ecosystems in Maori ownership on South Island Landless Natives Act (SILNA) land.

     

Number of SILNA blocks protected.

1 1 1

Hectares of indigenous ecosystem protected.

382 874 874
Service Providers for the Multi-Category Appropriation
Provider 2019/20
Final Budgeted
$000
2019/20
Estimated Actual
$000
2020/21
Budget
$000
Expiry of
Resourcing
Commitment
Queen Elizabeth II National Trust 3,412 3,412 3,412 Ongoing
Nature Heritage Fund 1,841 114 6,713 Ongoing
Nga Whenua Rahui 10,455 3,060 8,820 Ongoing
Various non-government organisations (SILNA) 1,170 557 4,000 Ongoing

Total

16,878 7,143 22,945  
End of Year Performance Reporting

Performance information for this appropriation will be reported by the Minister of Conservation in the Vote Conservation Non-Departmental Appropriations report.

Current and Past Policy Initiatives
Policy Initiative Year of
First
Impact
2019/20
Final Budgeted
$000
2020/21
Budget
$000
2021/22
Estimated
$000
2022/23
Estimated
$000
2023/24
Estimated
$000

Current Government

           
Reprioritisation of funding - South Island Landless Natives Act 2019/20 (1,869) - - - -
Reasons for Change in Appropriation

The increase in this appropriation for 2020/21 is due to:

  • Nature Heritage Fund net expense transfers of $4.872 million to 2020/21 due to unanticipated delays such as awaiting survey completion, delays in negotiations with third parties, contractor availability, and seasonal timing/unfavourable weather events (increase), and
  • South Island Landless Natives Act net expense transfers to 2020/21 of $2.830 million due to unexpected delays resulting from the complexities of multiple ownership for the land areas involved (increase),

partly offset by:

  • Nga Whenua Rahui net expense transfers to 2019/20 of $1.635 million due to unplanned events such as delays in negotiations, contractor availability and difficulty accessing challenging terrain (decrease).

Policy Advice, Statutory Planning, and Services to Ministers and Statutory Bodies (M16)

Overarching Purpose Statement
The single overarching purpose of this appropriation is to provide policy advice and other services to Ministers and other parties.
Scope of Appropriation
Departmental Output Expenses
Policy Advice
This category is limited to the provision of advice (including second opinion advice and contributions to policy advice led by other agencies) to support decision-making by Ministers on government policy matters relating to conservation.
Statutory Planning, Services to Ministers and Statutory Bodies
This category is limited to statutory planning and the provision of services to Ministers (other than policy decision making responsibilities) and statutory bodies to enable them to discharge their portfolio and responsibilities.
Expenses, Revenue and Capital Expenditure
  2019/20 2020/21
  Final Budgeted
$000
Estimated Actual
$000
Budget
$000

Total Appropriation

13,217 13,036 15,147

Departmental Output Expenses

     
Policy Advice 3,905 3,809 4,197
Statutory Planning, Services to Ministers and Statutory Bodies 9,312 9,227 10,950

Funding for Departmental Output Expenses

     

Revenue from the Crown

12,813 12,632 14,581
Policy Advice 3,767 3,671 4,097
Statutory Planning, Services to Ministers and Statutory Bodies 9,046 8,961 10,484

Revenue from Others

404 404 566
Policy Advice 138 138 100
Statutory Planning, Services to Ministers and Statutory Bodies 266 266 466
What is Intended to be Achieved with this Appropriation

This appropriation is intended to achieve effective policy advice in support of Government priorities and the Department's outcomes.

How Performance will be Assessed for this Appropriation

The Department will monitor the provision of advice to support decision-making by Ministers on government policy matters relating to conservation, and the provision of statutory planning and services to Ministers and statutory bodies to enable them to discharge their portfolio and responsibilities.

What is Intended to be Achieved with each Category and How Performance will be Assessed
  2019/20 2020/21
Assessment of Performance Final Budgeted
Standard
Estimated
Actual
Budget
Standard
Policy Advice      

This category is intended to achieve effective policy advice to support decision-making by Ministers on government policy matters relating to conservation.

     

The satisfaction of the Minister of Conservation with the policy advice service, as per common satisfaction survey.

4 (out of 5) 4 (out of 5) 4 (out of 5)

Technical quality of policy advice papers assessed by a survey and robustness assessment.

3 (out of 5) 3 (out of 5) 3 (out of 5)
Statutory Planning, Services to Ministers and Statutory Bodies      

This category is intended to achieve the provision of services to Ministers and statutory bodies to enable them to discharge their portfolio and responsibilities.

     

Number of ministerial briefings (range).

1,150-1,250 950 850-950

Number of Official Information Act requests received and actioned within statutory requirements.

750-850 900 850-950

Number of Parliamentary Questions received (range) with 100% meeting the ministerial deadline.

650-750 520 450-550
End of Year Performance Reporting

Performance information for this appropriation will be reported by the Department of Conservation in the Annual Report.

Current and Past Policy Initiatives
Policy Initiative Year of
First
Impact
2019/20
Final Budgeted
$000
2020/21
Budget
$000
2021/22
Estimated
$000
2022/23
Estimated
$000
2023/24
Estimated
$000

Current Government

           
Implementing Ngai Tai Supreme Court Decisions 2020/21 - 1,367 1,556 1,355 3,624
Remuneration cost pressures 2020/21 - 101 101 101 101
Strengthening organisational capacity and capability 2018/19 1,490 1,490 1,490 1,490 1,490
Reasons for Change in Appropriation

The increase in this appropriation for 2020/21 is mainly due to Budget 2020 funding received of $1.367 million for the implementation of Ngai Tai Supreme Court Decisions.

Provincial Growth Fund - Conservation Projects (M16)

Overarching Purpose Statement
The single overarching purpose of this appropriation is to lift the productivity potential of the regions through conservation-related projects.
Scope of Appropriation
Non-Departmental Other Expenses
Regional Projects
This category is limited to expenses incurred on conservation-related projects that contribute to regional development.
Non-Departmental Capital Expenditure
Infrastructure Projects
This category is limited to capital expenditure on conservation-related infrastructure projects that contribute to regional development.
Expenses, Revenue and Capital Expenditure
  2019/20 2020/21
  Final Budgeted
$000
Estimated Actual
$000
Budget
$000

Total Appropriation

1,003 503 4,600

Non-Departmental Other Expenses

     
Regional Projects 500 250 2,295

Non-Departmental Capital Expenditure

     
Infrastructure Projects 503 253 2,305
What is Intended to be Achieved with this Appropriation

This appropriation is intended to achieve the completion of projects approved by the Provincial Growth Fund and which are managed by the Department of Conservation.

How Performance will be Assessed for this Appropriation and End of Year Reporting Requirements

Exemptions have been granted under s15D(2)(b)(iii) of the PFA, see below table.

What is Intended to be Achieved with each Category and How Performance will be Assessed
  2019/20 2020/21
Assessment of Performance Final Budgeted
Standard
Estimated
Actual
Budget
Standard
Regional Projects      

This category is intended to achieve the completion of conservation-related regional projects that contribute to regional development.

     

An exemption was granted under s15D(2)(b)(iii) of the PFA, as the amount is less than $5 million.

Exempted Exempted Exempted
Infrastructure Projects      

This category is intended to achieve the completion of conservation-related infrastructure projects that contribute to regional development.

     

An exemption was granted under s15D(2)(b)(iii) of the PFA, as the amount is less than $15 million.

Exempted Exempted Exempted
Current and Past Policy Initiatives
Policy Initiative Year of
First
Impact
2019/20
Final Budgeted
$000
2020/21
Budget
$000
2021/22
Estimated
$000
2022/23
Estimated
$000
2023/24
Estimated
$000

Current Government

           

Conservation-related projects through the Provincial Growth Fund

           
Regional Projects 2019/20 500 2,295 4,589 2,290 -
Infrastructure Projects 2019/20 503 2,305 4,610 2,300 -
Reasons for Change in Appropriation

The increase in this appropriation for 2020/21 is due to funding being received for part of the year only in 2019/20.