Linda Faulkner

Linda is the Natural Science Commissioner of the NZ National Commission for UNESCO.

Linda is of Ngāti Rangi and Whanganui descent and brings a policy, research, governance, relationship and environmental management background to the role of National Commissioner.

Linda is currently Manahautū / Deputy Director for the Sustainable Seas National Science Challenge as well as the Director of Tūtaiao Ltd., a private consultancy focusing on people, policy and planning. She is also a member of the Governance Group of the Biological Heritage National Science Challenge, and has long been an advocate for creating space and maximising the distinctive and innovative opportunities and benefits possible through empowering mātauranga Māori to work alongside contemporary science.

Linda has also previously held senior executive roles in the national environmental management sector including as General Manager Māori at the Environmental Protection Authority. Linda has also worked for her own and other iwi as well as chairing and serving on several MBIE research investment and review panels. She also worked for Te Papa Tongarewa supporting the development of policy and process that ensured implementation of effective bicultural partnership.