Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) has appointed Dr Leslie Van Gelder as the chair to the Climate Reference Group (CRG).

The CRG is an independent panel of experts who advise the council on climate and biodiversity related issues and developments and help deliver the Climate Action Plan (CAP).  

Leslie is a Glenorchy resident and the co-chair of the Southern Lakes Sanctuary, and chair of both the Glenorchy Heritage and Museum Group and Glenorchy Dark Skies Sanctuary Group.

She has served on QLDC’s Vision Beyond 2050 Steering Group, Regenerative Recovery Advisory Group, and Economic Diversification Advisory Group.

“The Climate Reference Group is such an outstanding group of people who deeply care for this place and our future,” Leslie said. 

“I’m looking forward to seeing how we can amplify the work that’s already taking place in the district and finding more opportunities to work together in a cohesive, strategic, and impactful way.”

Councillors unanimously approved Leslie’s appointment at a council meeting late last month.

She replaces the previous chair, former Wānaka resident Bridget Legnavsky, who relocated to the United States. 

Mayor Glyn Lewers said Leslie was an “excellent fit” for the role.

“With Dr Van Gelder’s leadership, I look forward to receiving the group’s continued independent advice and guidance that’ll help ensure QLDC best navigates what is a complex, complicated, and multi-generational set of issues,” he said. 

Members of the Climate Reference Group include Dr Chris Cameron, Rev Evelyn Cook, Amanda Robinson, Alec Tang, Dr Barrie Wills, Eleanor Trueman, Dr Jim Salinger, Dr Lyn Carter, Tony Pfeiffer, Victoria Crockford, and Sydney Telfer.

PHOTO: QLDC