I've enjoyed being part of National's most effective policy advisory group, the Bluegreens, and, at the annual forum earlier this year, I was humbled to be given the inaugural Takahē Award for tireless work encouraging all New Zealanders. Thanks to Chris Severne and the Bluegreens for all you have done. I hope that in my time here, I have made a worthwhile contribution to preserving our natural heritage. I acknowledge the Department of Conservation's (DOC's) greatest director-general, Lou Sanson. DOC is in his DNA, and he's been the right man for the times to lead New Zealand's conservation heroes and warriors. 