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Glossary

  1. native

    Plant species that have evolved or are indigenous to a specific geographical area. The strict definition is a species that has not been introduced by humans either accidentally or intentionally. Because native species are a part of an ecosystem where everything is interdependent, these plants are adapted to local soil and weather conditions as well as pests and diseases.

  2. natural

    Existing in or produced by nature.

  3. natural character

    Those qualities and values of the coastal environment, wetlands, lakes, rivers and their margins that derive from the presence of natural elements, natural patterns and natural processes. These qualities include the presence of indigenous and exotic vegetation including pasture, terrestrial, aquatic and marine habitats, landforms, landscapes, and seascapes, the function of natural processes and the maintenance of water and air quality. The lower the degree of human modification the higher the level of natural character.

  4. natural heritage

    Includes indigenous flora and fauna, terrestrial, marine and freshwater ecosystems and habitats, landscapes, landforms, geological features, soils and the natural character of the coastline.

  5. new zealand biodiversity strategy

    A government-approved national strategy (2000) providing an integrated response to New Zealand’s declining indigenous biodiversity, prepared in part to meet a commitment under the Convention on Biological Diversity.

  6. new zealand conservation authority

    A national body of 13 appointed members established under section 6A of the Conservation Act 1987. Amongst other functions, it has the statutory responsibility for adopting General Policy for national parks, and approving conservation management strategies and plans and national park management plans (section 6B, Conservation Act 1987 and section 18, National Parks Act 1980).