Tane Davis (Invercargill)

Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to conservation

Tane Davis has dedicated his Queen's Birthday honour to his late mother Jane, saying that "her Taonga of knowledge and ability to combine Matauranga Maori and western science and the people" helped contribute to the honour he has received.

An "emotionally honoured and humbled" Mr Davis said he was still committed to conducting the important conservation work he has remained so passionate about for more than 20 years. 

"Conservation is full of important moments. Representing Ngai Tahu, working in partnership with Nga Iwi, and the Treaty Partner to better the whenua is ultimately the important moment".

Mr Davis has helped contribute to the conservation efforts and Maori interests throughout New Zealand, particularly through his work on the appropriate management of Whenua Hou/Codfish Island, a nature reserve off the north-eastern coast of Rakiura/Stewart Island.

He was instrumental in establishing an access policy and operational plan for Whenua Hou, which is the subject of a Deed of Recognition under the Ngai Tahu Claims Settlement Act 1988. 

He has been the chairman of Whenua Hou Committee since its inception and was the principal Murihiku Maori representative in the major archaeological excavations on Whenua Hou in 2007.

Mr Davis has strongly supported scientific and scholarly researching concerning Whenua Hou and has assisted in the development of numerous research applications and since 2006 has been a member of the Kaka Recovery Group and has participated in the conservation efforts through engagement on discussion genetics, breeding events and sponsorship.

He has also led efforts to promote bio-security on the Titi Islands and successfully negotiated an agreement between Titi islanders to use a conservation dog trained to detect rodents.

Mr Davis said he would use the day to celebrate his recognition by visiting and acknowledging his whanau resting at the Aparima Urupa.