Presenters

Natasha Garvan, Partner, Bell Gully
Natasha is a resource management specialist, heading up Bell Gully’s environment and planning practice. She advises on strategic and consenting strategies for large scale infrastructure providers, public bodies, iwi, property and land developers, businesses, and community interest groups, supporting them through plan change, designation or consenting processes. Natasha regularly appears as counsel at mediations and hearings, including advising on consents, designations, planning instruments, declarations, enforcement, and judicial review proceedings. She also routinely advises on sensitive land applications under the Overseas Investment Act. She is Convenor of the NZLS Climate Change Law Committee. Some of Natasha’s clients have included Waikato-Tainui, Auckland Transport and Genesis Energy.

Melanie Baker-Jones, Climate Advisor & Project Manager, Te Whakahaere
Melanie Baker-Jones, is a Climate Consultant committed to driving collaborative initiatives that empower individuals and businesses towards a climate-positive and sustainable future. With a foundation degree in Sociology and a background in IT, Melanie's early career has been shaped by problem-solving and a keen understanding of the collective wisdom gained from diverse and shared experiences. Having been admitted as a solicitor and with experience working with both corporates and SMEs, Melanie brings a unique perspective to the table. Her journey of knowledge acquisition includes not only her early career degree but also a law degree and a subsequent PhD. This doctoral research delved into the intersections of regulatory systems, legal liability, resilience, disaster management, and social media, supported in part by the prestigious Bushfire and Natural Hazard Co-operative Research Centre (CRC). This academic journey reinforced the importance of translating research findings into actionable strategies, underlining Melanie's dedication to fostering collaboration and enhancing collective capabilities. Melanie's passion for knowledge dissemination is reinforced through her role as a co-lecturer in climate change law at the University of Auckland. Continuously expanding her horizons, she is currently focused on deepening her understanding of te ao Māori and its relevance to risk perception, while also honing her proficiency in te reo. Drawing on her diverse background and expertise, Melanie continues to focus her efforts on the climate sector. Through collaborative ventures, she endeavours to integrate various strands of knowledge and experience, ultimately driving tangible outcomes for communities and future generations. Join Melanie on her journey as she navigates the intricacies of climate action, charting a course towards a sustainable future for all.