Thousands of people up and down the country volunteer their time to plant thousands of native trees and shrubs. Reserves have been created on islands, such as Kapiti and Tiritiri Matangi, where all pest species have been eradicated. Many inland pest-free ‘islands’ have been formed by erecting predator proof-fences. Some of these islands are in the middle of our cities, such as Riccarton Bush in Christchurch and Zealandia in Wellington.
Zealandia Te Māra a Tāne
Zealandia Te Māra a Tāne in the heart of Wellington City was conceived in 1995 and opened in 2000 after the erection of an 8.6 kilometre long predator proof-fence. The sanctuary has a 500 year plan to restore the reserve to how it would have appeared before humans arrived in New Zealand. It is home to many endangered species of birds, plants and animals such as saddleback, tuatara, giant wētā and little spotted kiwi.
New Zealand is fortunate to have been human-free until relatively recently – 1000 years is not long compared to 40,000 years in Australia and 100,000 years in Europe! We are also fortunate to have realised the value of our native bush before it was all gone. Now enthusiastic people are creating ‘corridors’ of bush so that our native species can have a better chance of survival. By connecting up remaining pockets of bush with these corridors, it allows many of our native animals to move between the pockets, increasing biodiversity and improving the gene pool.
Trees also improve the quality of our water by acting as filters, and their roots can provide habitats for aquatic animals. Trees improve soil quality by preventing erosion and loss of topsoil. They can improve our air quality by filtering out particulates and releasing oxygen. A recent study showed that growing up in a tree-lined street reduced your risk of developing asthma. Plants also absorb CO2 from the atmosphere and slow down climate change. Trees are now being planted to offset our carbon emissions because of this ability to act as carbon sinks.
Wherever you live in Aotearoa New Zealand, there will be a replanting scheme near you where people volunteer their time and energy to improve our environment. Why not start one at your school or in a local park?
Related content
In the Connected article Trees, seas and soil discover what a carbon sink is and why they are so important.
Below are some resources the explore the science that underpins restoration.
- Riparian restoration – article
- Planting stream edges – article
- Te whakatō otaota ki ngā tapa kōawa – article
- River islands – article
Planning pathways using conservation resources provides a selection of pathways for educators who want to support students with conservation learning and action.
The Taking action for conservation webinar provides pedagogical advice and resources when using conservation as a topic of learning or inquiry.
Predator Free 2050 vision – this series of lesson plans focuses on students becoming actively involved in contributing to a pest-free New Zealand.
