Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) is currently looking for a new chair for a group which advises the council on climate and biodiversity action.

The Climate Reference Group (CRG) has been instrumental in delivering projects, embedding climate action into council planning, and developing the Queenstown Lakes Climate and Biodiversity Plan 2022-25, mayor Glyn Lewers said.

“The independent group serves to lend their combined knowledge, research and expertise to address the issues of climate change in our district,” he said.

“As such, the CRG is highly valued as their thinking helps inform our strategies and policies.”

The CRG’s chair has the opportunity to collaborate with experts to guide its response to “the huge climate and ecological challenges we all face”, Glyn said.

The CRG meets every six weeks, alternating online and in person meetings, but the chair does not have to live in the district to apply.

The role requires a commitment of around half a day each month to prepare for, attend and take actions from these meetings.

“Following council’s declaration of a climate emergency in 2019, we are focused on achieving our bold climate targets,” Glyn said. 

“If you are keen to positively influence the direction of climate action in our district, we welcome your application.”

Anyone interested in this position can find the application form on the QLDC website.

Questions about the scope of the role and the application process can be emailed to [email protected].

Applications close on June 11.

PHOTO: Wānaka App