Chris Arbuckle

I specialise in freshwater ecology, with experience across science, policy, and applied land use practice in Aotearoa New Zealand. My work focuses on improving freshwater outcomes through integrated approaches that link science, policy, catchment processes, and on-the-ground decision-making. Most recently, I was a Specialist Advisor at the Ministry for Primary Industries, providing strategic and technical advice at the interface between land use and freshwater management. This included supporting initiatives to improve environmental performance and freshwater outcomes.

I’ve held senior roles across central and regional government, including leadership positions within regional councils, and previously managed an internationally recognised freshwater research programme at the University of Otago focused on land use impacts on freshwater ecosystems. This background provides a strong foundation in applying science in practical, real-world contexts. A key strength of my work is operating at the catchment and community scale. I’ve worked closely with rural and urban communities in the Upper Clutha/Wānaka catchment, including helping establish the Wānaka Catchment Group and supporting its shift from a compliance focus to proactive, farmer-led stewardship. I’m also a co-founder of The Touchstone Project, which builds community capability in freshwater science through citizen-led initiatives.

At Boffa Miskell, I provide specialist input to AEE processes for complex land use and infrastructure projects. My work includes environmental effects characterisation, cumulative effects assessment, and applying freshwater policy frameworks (including the NPS-FM) to support robust consenting outcomes.

I’m typically involved early in projects to help identify environmental constraints, risks, and opportunities, and to ensure freshwater considerations are well integrated into design. I also support technical delivery through mentoring and review, helping build capability in effects-based assessment, technical interpretation, and the preparation of clear, defensible AEE documentation.

I bring a pragmatic, systems-focused approach, with a particular strength in linking science, policy, and implementation to deliver practical, credible outcomes.

Qualifications
MSc (Zoology, Distinction), University of Otago
PGDip Wildlife Management (Distinction), University of Otago
Certificate in Science (Biology/Microbiology

Afilliations
Member, New Zealand Freshwater Sciences Society