Landcare Research at a glance
Researchers taking part in young scientists collaborative. Image – Tom Fraser.
Landcare Research – also known by our Māori name Manaaki Whenua – is New Zealand’s leading provider of solutions and advice for sustainable development and the management of land–based natural resources.
A Crown Research Institute formed in 1992, Landcare Research functions as an independent company monitored by Government agencies.
Our vision is: Innovative science for a sustainable future.
Fulfilling our vision is important because New Zealand’s social, cultural and economic well–being is inextricably linked to the state of its environment. Excellent science and its effective application can help balance economic growth with quality of life and ecological sustainability, in the face of compelling issues such as globalisation, resource limits, population growth, increased economic activity and climate change.
The cornerstones of our activities are:
- Generating and sharing new knowledge from scientific research
- Integrating environmental social and economic sciences to maximise valuable outcomes
- Proactively working in partnership with government, business, communities and Māori
- Practising the sustainability principles we espouse
Many of our science teams are at the international forefront of developing and sharing knowledge in their specialist areas. We collaborate here in New Zealand and internationally with leading research organisations and partner with key customers to maximise the relevance and effectiveness of our research.
Our commitment to sustainable development extends beyond research to our own practices. In particular, we are serious about reducing our own impacts on the environment. We have an ISO 14001 certified environmental management system and we are a founding member of the New Zealand Business Council for Sustainable Development.
Landcare Research has almost 400 staff at nine locations. The largest of our research sites is at Lincoln, which is also home to our corporate office. We also have regional offices in Palmerston North and Hamilton, plus offices at Auckland, Gisborne, Wellington, Nelson, Dunedin and Alexandra.
While most of our work is carried out in New Zealand, we have extensive international links, and expertise such as vertebrate pest management is in demand overseas. We also undertake aid–related projects particularly within the South Pacific.
The way we work is shaped by our Guiding Philosophy, in summary:
- Care for the land (Manaaki Whenua) to sustain current and future generations (Manaaki Tangata)
- Honour the Treaty of Waitangi
- Act ethically in all aspects of our business
- Use science to achieve and encourage sustainable development in Aotearoa – New Zealand
- Encourage community participation
- Seek to avoid, mitigate and remedy adverse environmental effects
- Provide information to inform public debate and where necessary advocate publicly
- Publicise our achievements to show we make a difference
- Develop, retain and attract research, science and technology capability for New Zealand’s benefit