The Department of Conservation (DoC) was formed in 1987 with the amalgamation of Wildlife Service division of the Department of Internal Affairs, Department of Lands & Survey and the New Zealand Forest Service.

The Department of Conservation is the central government organisation charged with conserving the natural and historic heritage of New Zealand on behalf of and for the benefit of present and future New Zealanders.

Its mission is "to conserve New Zealand's natural and historic heritage for all to enjoy now and in the future".

The Department's responsibilities are encapsulated in the Department's Maori name - Te Papa Atawhai; Te papa signifies a box or container (for the taonga or treasures) and atawhai the act of caring, nurturing or preserving.

Pukaha Mount Bruce is a scenic reserve administered by DoC. DoC’s role is to manage all of the department operations including captive breeding and research, pest control and other forest protection. DoC also undertakes the upkeep of the visitor facilities including tracks, car parks, signs, also manage the visitor centre and nocturnal house on behalf of the National Wildlife Centre Trust board.

(more about DoC)