Restoring Biodiversity in Wairau
Connecting landscapes and communities through
ecological corridors
The Wairau catchment is Marlborough’s most degraded, with only 4–11% of native vegetation remaining in the lowlands. This is below the 15% needed for species survival. The Wairau Nature Network brings communities together to restore and connect these habitats through Ecological Corridors. We're helping native species thrive and strengthening our landscape’s resilience.
By working together, we’re nurturing a healthier, more vibrant Wairau for current and future generations.
Our Goals
Achieve 15% native vegetation cover in the Wairau lowlands by 2045 through community-led ecological corridors.
Educate and inspire communities about restoration benefits, encouraging active participation in biodiversity enrichment.
Provide accessible technical knowledge to support successful restoration efforts and enhance community engagement.
Facilitate partnerships and support community planting initiatives to enrich local biodiversity.
Visualise landscape connectivity, prioritise restoration areas, and measure success to motivate ongoing efforts through mapping.
What are Ecological Corridors?
Ecological Corridors are stretches of native vegetation—like riparian margins, hedgerows, and unproductive land—that act as pathways for wildlife. They enable animals to find food, mates, and habitats, maintaining genetic diversity and ecosystem health. By linking isolated habitat patches, corridors boost the landscape’s ability to adapt to climate change and other pressures.
Benefits for the Community
Ecological Corridors improve water quality, reduce erosion, and provide shelter for crops, livestock, and people. They enhance landscape beauty and create more recreational opportunities. These corridors can coexist with productive land, supporting pollinators and improving farm resilience.
With community motivation, support, and practical knowledge, land managers gain the confidence and skills to restore corridors effectively, turning fragmented habitats into thriving, resilient ecosystems.
How can you get involved?
Our community is growing and you're welcome to join us! Among us we have volunteers, sponsors, educators, landowners and more.
Ehara taku toa i te toa takatahi, engari he toa takitini
Our strength is not made from us alone, but made from many.
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