In August 2022, Fish and Game announced Corina Jordan as its new chief executive, a role many would have considered a poisoned chalice.
The organisation - made up of 12 regional councils and one national body - had been mired in conflict in recent years and subject to a spate of audits, investigations, and resignations. Established under the Conservation Act 1987, Fish and Game replaced the colonial acclimatisation societies and became responsible for managing fish and game hunting licences. In the 30 years since, it had become one of Aotearoa's biggest freshwater advocates, but little else about the organisation had changed.
In 2020, accusations of bullying and internal conflict prompted a ministerial review with the ensuing report finding Fish and Game was perceived to be an 'old boys' club', plagued with governance, efficiency, and transparency problems. Included in the report was the recommendation to amalgamate councils and reduce the elected 144 councillors - more than Parliament - to 100. It was clear the organisation needed to change, and tasked with turning it around - its new chief executive.
Fish and Game chief executive Corina Jordan. Photo: RICHARD COSGROVE
