We are a group of like-minded people from all over New Zealand and beyond who appreciate Tongariro National Park as a special place for its natural, cultural and recreation values. Our goal is to to introduce people to the park and surrounding natural areas through society and volunteer projects and outings. We enjoy a special working relationship with the Department of Conservation, who manages the park and other conservation areas in the central North Island. We undertake a number of conservation projects on their behalf using Project Tongariro (TNHS) members, New Zealand and international volunteers. Join us in helping maintain our beautiful natural resource that is Tongariro National Park.

Volunteer executive Board Members

Allan McKenzie
I had a long career at DOC head office in nature heritage protection and associated policy development. I was involved in the creation of the Nature Heritage Fund and the NZ Conservation Authority and Conservation Boards. I’m proud of a my involvement in the procurement of large areas of unique landscape to be protected and preserved by the Crown. I believe my ability to think strategically is a valuable addition to the Project Tongariro Executive.
Always a keen outdoorsman; tramper and skier, I now ski every good day at Mt Ruapehu and each winter season in Canada and maintain my interest in the outdoors by being involved in Mahi Aroha and many other Project Tongariro events.

Karen GrimwadeI have loved the beautiful forests and fragile alpine landscapes of the central plateau ever since arriving as a young thing - 30 odds years ago. I have been skiing, tramping and walking in the area ever since. I worked for DOC for man… — Karen Grimwade
I have loved the beautiful forests and fragile alpine landscapes of the central plateau ever since arriving as a young thing - 30 odds years ago. I have been skiing, tramping and walking in the area ever since. I worked for DOC for many years in various operational and admin roles, and also a member of the TNHS – the wonderful people I worked with over those DOC years shaped my conservation views. Being a member of the Ohakune & Turangi fire brigades influenced my belief in community networks being essential to make projects happen.
I have a BA in NZ History, and MA in Cultural Heritage Management. After having my two lovely boys, I wrote local histories, helped research & design interp displays and most recently updated the TNP Plant Identification guide.
Now my boys are off to university, giving me time on my hands, so like many on the Project Tongariro Board, I am keen to ‘give back’ to this precious place.

Lucy Roberts
Originally from Rotherham, South Yorkshire in the UK, I have worked in conservation since leaving University in 1990. I worked in the UK as a Ranger for 12 years then moved to New Zealand with my Kiwi partner Sarah in 2001.
I was lucky enough to work as a Biodiversity Ranger for DOC in Turangi for 10 years, living in Taupo and then Turangi. This is when I developed my love for the area. I worked directly with Project Tongariro.
I then spent 7 years working for DOC at the Waikato District office working on various projects including the Whangamarino wetland and working with Waikato Tainui iwi, hapu and whanau on projects connected to the Waikato River treaty settlement.
I currently work as a Technical Advisor (Weeds) for the Department of Conservation (DOC) based out of Kirikiriroa but very much consider the central north island and Tongariro National Park as my home in New Zealand. It is a place which Sarah my partner, my Mum Jane and I love. Being on the executive committee keeps me connected to the area and people. Project Tongariro are like family to me.

Paul Green

Project Tongariro has been a central part of my life since returning to the Central North Island in 1986 as Chief Ranger of Tongariro National Park. From then until my retirement in 2012, I served as the DOC’s representative on the Project Tongariro Board, followed by ongoing board appointments and a two-year period as Honorary Director (CEO). I have also completed two terms as President.

My career has been dedicated to conservation and National Parks, including senior roles across Tongariro, Hauraki Gulf Maritime, and Fiordland National Parks, and 23 years as DOC Conservator for Tongariro/Taupō.

I have long believed that protecting our National Parks requires strong community partnership. I have witnessed Project Tongariro’s evolution from a living legacy into a highly effective conservation organisation and remain deeply committed to supporting its mission as an Executive Officer.