Auckland Botanic Gardens is delighted to welcome Bec Stanley as its new Manager.
Bec’s connection to the Gardens runs deep, having previously served for nine years as Curator before stepping into a broader environmental leadership role within Auckland Council.
Most recently, as Principal Advisor in the Environmental Services team, she has led efforts to enable community- and mana-whenua-led nature restoration, fostering collaboration across diverse sectors—including business.
A passionate “plant person” at heart, Bec began her career as a threatened plant botanist and is deeply committed to the belief that connecting with nature holds the key to addressing the environmental challenges we face.
She sees botanic gardens as a place where many people first form that vital connection with nature—a safe, accessible space that not only nurtures wellbeing but also inspires environmentally sustainable lifestyles.
She knows botanic gardens are not just places of beauty but also centres of deep expertise. The skills and knowledge held by gardens staff is crucial role in sharing and fostering knowledge, helping communities, researchers, and visitors alike to advance their understanding and connection with plants and gardens.
One of the things Bec is most excited about in returning to the Gardens is reconnecting with the extensive network of industry contacts and collaborators who make this space so vibrant.
She views these partnerships as a defining strength of the Gardens and is eager to continue fostering meaningful connections that support and grow its impact.
