Our team recently spent the day getting their hands dirty in the undergrowth on Motutapu Island as part of a conservation volunteer day with the Motutapu Restoration Trust.
We helped tackle invasive weeds, supporting the ongoing protection of the island’s native environment and more than 50,000 trees that volunteers have planted since 1991.
Along the way, we met some wonderful people, learned plenty about the island’s history and ecology, and gained a greater appreciation for the incredible conservation work taking place there. We were also very well equipped for the occasion, thanks to the Motutapu Restoration Trust’s rather stylish volunteer outfits!
The Motutapu Restoration Trust was established in 1993 to support the Motutapu Restoration Project, bringing together volunteers and supporters to help restore and protect the island’s unique natural and historic heritage.
Working alongside Rangitoto, Motutapu offers an exceptional opportunity for ecological restoration so close to Auckland. The Trust has played a significant role in this work through its regular volunteer days, focusing on activities such as planting, weeding and nursery work.
A major milestone was reached in 2011 when Motutapu was declared free of mammalian pests, marking a significant achievement for conservation in New Zealand.
It’s an incredible restoration success story, made possible by the dedication of countless volunteers over many years. We were proud to play a small part in supporting this important work and thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to get involved.
