Craig Pauling

Craig is of Māori and European descent, with tribal affiliations to Ngāi Tahu and Ngāti Mutunga.

He holds a degree in Environmental Management, and post-graduate qualifications in Social Science and Ecology.

He is also a qualified RMA hearings commissioner, and has worked in a variety of roles in environmental policy, research, and as a consultant.

He is a founding trustee of Te Ara Kākāriki, a charitable organisation dedicated to ecological restoration on the Canterbury Plains, and is also heavily involved in competitive waka ama (outrigger canoeing).

Craig’s priorities are to explore diverse land use opportunities that will protect and enhance our unique water, soil and biodiversity, while responding to the challenges of climate change.