The Excellence Series showcases leadership and excellence across research, policy and practice, providing a platform for influential thinkers and decision-makers to share insights that help shape New Zealand’s future.
We are delighted to welcome Penny Nelson, Director-General of Conservation, for a special Excellence Series event exploring the role of conservation in supporting a thriving, resilient and prosperous Aotearoa New Zealand.
New Zealand’s natural environment underpins our identity, wellbeing, economy and international reputation. Yet biodiversity loss, climate change, increasing pressure on natural resources and evolving societal expectations are creating new challenges for how we manage and protect our landscapes, ecosystems and species.
In this seminar, Penny Nelson will reflect on the opportunities and challenges facing New Zealand’s conservation system and the role that government, iwi, communities, researchers, industry and landowners can play in safeguarding our natural heritage for future generations. Drawing on her extensive experience in public sector leadership, she will share perspectives on conservation as a foundation for resilience, the importance of partnership and innovation and how environmental stewardship can contribute to broader social and economic outcomes.
This event offers a valuable opportunity to engage with one of New Zealand’s foremost leaders in conservation and to explore how collaborative approaches can help deliver positive outcomes for both people and nature.
Thursday 25 June 2026
1.00pm–2.30pm
Memorial Hall, Lincoln University & virtual livestream
Timings
1.00 pm - Networking
1.15 pm - Welcome & introduction from LU Vice-Chancellor (virtual livestream begins)
1.20 pm - Presentation from Speaker
1.50 pm - Summary
2.00 pm - Networking and questions over drinks and nibbles
2.30pm - Event Ends
About Our Speaker
Penny Nelson - Director General, Department of Conservation
Penny Nelson started the role of Director-General on 1 November 2021.
Before starting at DOC Penny was Deputy Director-General for Biosecurity NZ. Penny joined the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) in 2018 as Deputy Director-General Policy and Trade, where she led work shaping the future of the primary sector – enhancing the sector’s sustainability and growth.
Penny has worked across a range of areas of government, including the environment, economic development, and social development. Prior to joining MPI, Penny was Deputy Secretary at Ministry for the Environment where she was responsible for climate change, the marine environment, environmental reporting, and the science system.
She has also worked within the private and science sectors including roles at DairyNZ, the Sustainable Business Council, and Landcare Research.
Penny holds a Masters of Science in Resource Management (Honours) from Lincoln University and a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) from the University of Otago.
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