Help available for wetland restoration

A number of agencies have funds available for wetland restoration. You will need to contact the agencies to find out how much money is available and what the criteria are for funding.

Greater Wellington

Private Landowners

Wetland Incentives Programme: The region's wetlands are getting a helping hand with Greater Wellington's wetland incentives programme. Landowners have helped to design the programme that will see $40,000 available each year for wetland restoration. Click here for more information about the Wetlands Incentives Programme.

Groups of landowners or community groups

The Take Care programme aims to enable community groups to look after and learn about the environment. It provides funds and support for community groups undertaking projects to improve the environment.

For more information visit the Take Care section.

QEII National Trust

The QEII National Trust helps private landowners legally protect areas of wetland and bush on their property using covenants. The cost of establishing a covenant, including fencing, legal and survey costs, is normally shared equally between the landowner, the QEII National Trust, and Greater Wellington. Greater Wellington also has funding available to help with weed and pest control on covenanted land.

For more information, visit www.openspace.org.nz or phone 0800 OPENSPACE (0800 467 367).

Fish and Game New Zealand, Wellington region

Fish and Game New Zealand provides specialist advice and support for landowners seeking to enhance wetlands or develop farm ponds for game bird habitat. Grants may also be available from the New Zealand Game Bird Habitat Trust. Approved projects can receive up to 50% financial support.

For more information, visit www.fishandgame.org.nz or phone (04) 477 6118.

Your local council

Some city and district councils offer help for landowners restoring and protecting wetlands. Check with your local council for more information.

Other funding sources

For information on funding sources for environmental projects please see the funding information services website which is free to view at public libraries.

Other wetland contacts

The National Wetland Trust of New Zealand

The National Wetland Trust was established in 1999 to promote wetlands and their values to all New Zealanders. The Trust's first task is to build a wetland interpretation centre for people to learn more about wetlands and experience their special qualities.

For more information visit www.wetlandtrust.org.nz