Guardians of Lake Manapouri facts for kids
The Guardians of Lake Manapouri, Monowai and Te Anau are a special group in New Zealand. Their main job is to look after the beautiful Lake Manapouri and Lake Te Anau, along with Lake Monowai and the rivers connected to them. They make sure that the Manapouri Power Station operates in a way that protects the environment, nature, and the people living near these lakes.
They pay close attention to how the power station affects things like:
- Nature and wildlife (conservation)
- Fun activities like boating and fishing (recreation)
- Visitors coming to see the lakes (tourism)
- The overall beauty and value of the area.
This group also makes recommendations to the New Zealand Minister of Conservation, who is like the government's head person for protecting nature.
Contents
How the Guardians Started
The Guardians were formed because of a big public effort called the Save Manapouri campaign. Many people were worried about how the Manapouri Power Station might affect the lakes.
After the 1972 general election, the new Prime Minister, Norman Kirk, decided to create this group. He asked Alan Mark, a key leader from the "Save Manapouri" campaign, to lead it. The first six Guardians chosen by Kirk were all important figures in protecting the lakes. Alan Mark became the first chairperson and served in that role for 26 years!
First Guardians of the Lakes
The first people chosen to be Guardians were:
- Alan Mark (who was the chairperson and later received a special honour for his work)
- Ron McLean
- Wilson Campbell
- Les Hutchins
- John Moore
- Jim McFarlane
What the Guardians Do Today
The rules for the Guardians are set out in a law called the Conservation Act 1987. This law explains their duties and responsibilities. Since 1998, the law also says that at least one Guardian must be a person chosen by Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu. This ensures that the views and knowledge of the local Māori people, Ngāi Tahu, are always part of the decisions.
Current Guardians
As of August 2025, the people who are currently serving as Guardians are:
- Darryl Sycamore (chairperson)
- Bill Jarvie
- Dave Riddell
- Dr. Jane Kitson (representing Ngāi Tahu)
- Madeleine Peacock (deputy chairperson)
- Sandra Cook (representing Ngāi Tahu)
- Dr. Sue Bennett
- Tom Ives
