New Zealand once boasted around 670,000 hectares of freshwater wetlands. Latest estimates show this coverage has reduced by almost 90%.
Fonterra has partnered with NZ Landcare Trust/Ngā Matapopore Whenua to fund 10 grants – each worth $25,000 – to support community groups to restore and improve wetlands.
The new partnership is made possible through the Co-op’s Doing Good Together programme, which focuses on three pillars: putting good quality nutrition in the hands of those who need it most, providing care and support to keep rural communities strong, and empowering communities to protect and restore nature for future generations.
NZ Landcare Trust is a grassroots organisation supporting communities in beneficial land and water management practices. The Trust’s work programme is funded by the Ministry for the Environment and the Ministry of Primary Industries. It also secures and completes a series of additional projects each year, partnering with rural communities, catchment groups and other organisations to make a tangible difference in the future of New Zealand’s waterways.
Fonterra’s Group Director of Global External Affairs, Simon Tucker, says working in partnership is key to delivering meaningful impact for communities.
“Collaborating with our partners at NZ Landcare Trust ensures this investment supports communities at a grassroots level. We’re grateful to the many farmers, communities and volunteers who are passionate about caring for wetlands, and preserving them for generations to come.”
Through the partnership with the Co-op, NZ Landcare Trust will support the delivery of the grants to catchments nationwide. The national not-for-profit organisation has built a solid reputation since it was established in 1996, empowering farmers and catchment groups with expert guidance and free educational support promoting sustainable practices for managing land and water resources.
NZ Landcare Trust CEO Dr Nick Edgar says wetlands are among the most productive ecosystems, playing a vital role in supporting biodiversity, improving water quality, and flood mitigation.
“Wetlands play a crucial role in maintaining water quality, earning them the nickname the ‘earth’s kidneys’. These natural ecosystems filter and purify surrounding soil, improving both water and land quality. They function as sponges, absorbing excess water and significantly reducing the risk of flooding,” he says.
“We are proud to partner with Fonterra and local catchment groups to restore these essential environmental assets through collaborative, community-led stewardship. This initiative allows us to regenerate and protect wetlands with greater efficiency and meaningful impact.”
Regional partners and Community Groups can submit their expressions of interest through NZ Landcare Trust.
