Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the Wairau Nature Network?

The Wairau Nature Network is a community-led initiative bringing together local groups, businesses, landowners, and volunteers to protect and restore the natural environment of the Wairau Catchment and surrounding landscapes. We focus on enhancing biodiversity, creating ecological corridors, and connecting people with nature.

2. Why is connecting habitats important?

Wildlife needs safe, continuous pathways to move, feed, and breed. When habitats are fragmented, species become isolated, making them more vulnerable to extinction. By restoring ecological corridors, we help native birds, insects, and plants thrive, building resilience against climate change.

3. How can I get involved?

There are many ways to participate:

- Volunteer at planting or weeding days.

- Join a local group within the network.

- Share your land for restoration projects.

- Donate to support ongoing conservation work.

Check our Events page for upcoming opportunities or contact us to learn more.

4. Do I need special skills to help?

Not at all! We welcome all ages and skill levels. Whether you can plant a tree, help with admin, or share local knowledge, your contribution matters. Training and guidance are provided for all hands-on activities.

5. What types of projects does the Wairau Nature Network support?

We support a wide range of conservation and community initiatives, including:

- Restoration projects such as native planting, wetland care, and predator control.

- Community working bees, where people come together to tackle hands-on tasks that make a real difference.

- Workshops and training sessions to upskill volunteers, landowners, and groups in areas like pest control, planting techniques, and biodiversity monitoring.

- Advice and guidance for anyone wanting to start or strengthen their own environmental projects.

- A one-stop shop for resources, connecting you with tools, information, funding opportunities, and local expertise.

6. How does this benefit landowners?

Joining the network can improve biodiversity on your property, increase pollination, enhance soil health, and reduce erosion. Plus, you’ll be part of a supportive community working toward a shared vision for a thriving Wairau landscape.

7. Who funds the Wairau Nature Network?

Funding comes from a mix of grants, donations, and support from local businesses and community groups. We’re a not-for-profit organisation, so all contributions go directly toward conservation efforts.

8. Is this just for rural landowners, or can urban residents help too?

Everyone can make a difference! Urban residents can join volunteer events, plant native gardens at home, or help spread awareness. Every action, big or small, adds to the collective impact.

9. How do you measure success?

We track progress through community participation, whether that be attendance at workshops, working bees or an expansion of restoration efforts. Success isn’t just about numbers, it’s about creating a connected landscape where nature and people thrive together.

10. Why is it called a “network”?

Because it’s not one group doing all the work. It’s a network of individuals, community groups, iwi, landowners, and agencies working together, like pieces of a puzzle, to create a bigger, more powerful picture of landscape-scale restoration.

11. How can I stay updated?

Subscribe to our newsletter, follow us on social media, and keep an eye on our website for news, events, and success stories.