The Department of Conservation (DOC) says it will be September before a review is finalised which will lead to job cuts throughout the country.
The department wants to direct more resources to field work.
Sources have told Radio New Zealand News up to 150 jobs are at risk, including those of scientists.
The Canterbury Aoraki Conservation Board, an independent body which provides advice to the department, says DOC is moving towards being a more business-friendly organisation.
Board chairman Steve Lowndes says it is unlikely any changes will save more than a few million dollars.
He says the department must decide whether it is worth compromising its core function of looking after the environment, to try to play a part in the market place.
