Restoring Nature
2021 AWARD FINALIST
Sponsored by Department of Conservation
Habitat Restorations Aotearoa works on wetland restoration, riparian planting, native revegetation and weed and pest control. It has restored marginal land to thriving native ecosystems while creating meaningful employment and careers. The company aims to turn nature restoration into an industry sector.
Habitat Restorations Aotearoa has partnered with Predator Free NZ and is hosting an apprenticeship programme. This helps create pathways for paid training in the conservation space. In 2020, it was involved in the planting of more than 40,000 sedges, shrubs and trees. The organisation has been engaged by Fonterra to carry out riparian plantings on Fonterra’s Edendale site. It has designed, built, and installed nest boxes for Hoiho penguins for the Department of Conservation. It has worked alongside the Department and Contact Energy on freshwater enhancement planting projects on the Mata Au Clutha River.
Habitat Restorations Aotearoa’s techniques naturally transform weed infested areas to re-establish native populations of pūrei (Carex secta). This reduces herbicide use around waterways. Its work restores nature. It connects people to the land. It highlights the importance of taonga species.