When European settlers first arrived in New Zealand, over 80% of the land was blanketed in native forest. Today, the picture is starkly different – only 24% of New Zealand’s native bush remains, with less than 10% surviving in the Upper Clutha region.
Te Kākano is working to change this. As a community-driven organisation, they’re dedicated to restoring native habitats through education, propagation, and hands-on participation. Their work spans the entire restoration process: from collecting local seeds, to nurturing seedlings in their community nursery, to organising planting events where volunteers from all backgrounds come together to return these taoka (treasured) species to the Wānaka landscape.
Operating entirely through volunteer efforts and donations, Te Kākano believes that caring for the land creates lasting connections – both to the environment and to each other.
Want to be part of this vital work? Whether you’re a local or visitor, there are many ways to contribute.
Watch the video below to learn more and keep an eye out for their next volunteer opportunity.
Native plants are essential to the wellbeing of the local environment. Their roots protect the land from erosion and help to reduce flooding. They also provide food and safe habitats for native birds. On a larger scale, of course, plants absorb carbon dioxide and forests create powerful “carbon sinks” that help to combat climate change.
Here are three ways you can look after Wānaka’s native plant life:
(1) Walk, Weed and Water!
Head out for a walk along the lakeside and be sure to keep your eyes open for Te Kākano’s signage and giant drums of water. The drums are located right along the tracks and have a bucket that you can use to water the plants in the surrounding area. Learn more here.
(2) Volunteer at the nursery
Join Te Kākano for one of their regular volunteer sessions. They’re held every Tuesday and Wednesday. All are welcome.
(3) Donate to support their mahi (work)
Te Kākano relies solely on the kind generosity of donations and grants to support the needs of the nursery and their ongoing planting projects. Donate here to support their vital mahi.
