MEDIA RELEASE

Tuesday 1 November 2016

For immediate distribution

AUCKLAND WETLANDS SAVED BY GIVEALITTLE CROWD

Matuku Link, the 37ha bush and wetland that Kiwis helped to fundraise more than $2 million dollars for, is SAFE! It is safe from subdivision and will be well managed by the Matuku Reserve Trust with full predator control to protect the native flora and fauna. 

337 generous Givealittle users have pledged over $1.25m to ensure that this beautiful piece of New Zealand landscape will be looked after and the wildlife will be afforded the protection they need and deserve. 

John Staniland, Matuku Reserve Trustee, says: “We are thrilled that donors of both large and small amounts have brought success to this great project! This land purchase will allow wildlife from the Ark in the Park to safely connect with the rest of the valley, after some restoration of the wetland portion and pest control on the forested hills. In addition, it will enable visitors to learn about wetlands, the most reduced habitat in New Zealand, and more easily access the adjacent Forest & Bird owned Matuku Reserve. With a growing Auckland population and a higher number of visitors wanting an experience of nature, this acquisition will increase in future value both for native plants and wildlife and for people.”

Givealittle Chief Giving Officer, Tom Beyer says “this proves what we all knew already - New Zealanders are a generous bunch who are always there to back a great idea or to help each other out when the going gets tough."

The land was handed over from the current, private owners to the Matuku Link Trust today (November 1st). A celebration of the successful pledge campaign and land purchase will be held once the weather is warmer and the site is drier. This Open Day will be held during Waitangi weekend for World Wetland Day in February 2017. 

ENDS

MATUKU LINK: THE NUMBERS 

● $1,260,019.00 pledged from 337 backers over 10 weeks 

● 37 hectares of bush and wetland at Te Henga, West Auckland