Over 10 Peer Reviews have now been facilitated by Parks Forum for its member agencies.They have covered a wide range of organisations, programs and projects and initiated important discussion about the success and resilience of agencies and their work. 

One of the first reviews was conducted at Penguin Island, a premier ecologically sustainable tourism destination in Western Australia.  The Review Team was hosted by staff from the Department of  Environment and Conservation (DEC). Discussions with DEC staff about management and a tour of Penguin Island identified that the Island has many attributes, including excellent opportunities for passive contact with nature and visual  amenity. The Review Team also appreciated the DEC staff’s high level of commitment to the management of Penguin Island and their desire to provide a high quality experience to a diverse range of visitors. 

The experience is enhanced by the strong partnership between DEC and the tour operator Rockingham Wild Encounters – Penguin Island.

A review of Tawharanui Open Sanctuary managed by Auckland Regional Council, was undertaken in May 2008. Set on a remote peninsula, the 588-hectare park is New Zealand's first integrated open sanctuary where farming, public recreation and conservation of native species combine. Maori lived in this area for more than 800 years and have an on-going relationship with the land.

The Review Team was impressed by the commitment and enthusiasm of the staff and volunteers. Co-operation between Auckland Regional Council and the Tawharanui Open Sanctuary Society has facilitated a strong environmental program that helps to protect unique species and has facilitated the reintroduction of the kiwi to the sanctuary.

Some agencies have made copies of the reports available to their peers through the Resource Database.

Members can click here to search and view the peer review documents in our resource database.

If you would like more information about the Peer Review Program please Contact Us.