Gerard Fitzgerald

Gerard has over 30 years professional experience in practical social research design, implementation, and management, with a particular focus on social impact assessment and the human aspects of natural resource management.

NZ clients have ranged from national, regional and local public sector agencies, state-owned and private sector corporations, non-governmental and community-based organizations, and scientific research organisations. Internationally, Gerard has worked on development problems and projects in India, Bangladesh, China, North Korea, Indonesia, Fiji, Tonga, Solomon Islands and Australia. Clients have included the World Bank, ADB, UNDP, UKODA, NZAID, AusAID, the Rainforest Alliance, Conservation International, and the State Government of Western Australia.

Gerard has taught various aspects of social research, the sociology of resources and environment, and interantional development at Canterbury and Lincoln Universities, at Edith Cowan and Murdoch Universities in Australia, and in international short courses.  Along with a wide range of research and client reports, conference papers and journal articles, he has authored book chapters on social impact assessment, the social aspects of wildlife and pest animal management, biodiversity management, forest management, and energy conservation.

 

Laurel Fitzgerald

Laurel has been involved in adult and child education in New Zealand and Australia for over 30 years. This includes over 10 years lecturing and in-service education at the University of Canterbury College of Education in the areas of social studies, environmental and sustainability education, the Treaty of Waitangi, curriculum development, and professional teacher development.

Laurel offers specialist knowledge in education for sustainability, participation of young people in environmental decision making and action, and social justice.