Wetland restoration funding and support

Many landowners are working to restore and protect wetlands on their land. Greater Wellington supports this mahi with expert advice and, in some cases, funding assistance. 

Why wetlands matter 

Wetlands are vital links between land and water. No matter their size or shape, they:

• Support healthy ecosystems and biodiversity 
• Hold deep cultural importance for Māori 
• Provide habitat for a wide range of species 
• Deliver key ecosystem services, including improving water quality and storing water to maintain stream flows during drought. 

Support for landowners

If you have a wetland, river, or stream on your property, we can help you restore and protect it. For advice, email Environment.Restoration@gw.govt.nz.

What our funding can cover

• Advice – guidance on the best way to manage your wetland, including native species for your site, and what pest species to avoid.
• Fencing – keeps stock out, protecting both water quality and animals.
• Pest plant control – removes invasive species that compete with natives for space and nutrients.
• Planting – reintroduces native species that improve habitat, filter runoff, and prevent weed reinvasion.

Note: Some planting or removal may require resource consent. Contact us for advice. 

Protecting waterways on farms

Watch Shane and Eileen Walker talk about restoring a wetland on their retired dairy farm, with help from Greater Wellington and Ngā Hapū o Ōtaki.

How to apply

Our programme has criteria to help us focus our funding in places that have the biggest need support. To find out if you're eligible fill out the below form and a member of our team will be in touch.