Community volunteers on Hokitika's Wadeson Island have dramatically exceeded their planting targets, with 896 native plants now in place – 178% of the original 500-plant commitment under the Air New Zealand's Every Corner Project.

The achievement represents a significant milestone in the ongoing restoration of Wadeson Island's eroding Hokitika Riverbank, which has been transformed from a former tip site into a thriving habitat for whitebait, invertebrates and wading birds.

"This was such a great community effort," said Chris Watson, local project lead. "We've seen overwhelming support from the community so far, with 53 volunteer-days contributed across four of five planned community planting events. The final planting day is scheduled for 22 February."

The project, delivered for Pōkeka Poutini Ngāi Tahu on a Westland District Council recreation reserve, focuses directly on addressing bank stability and reducing sediment entering the river.

"Really cool project and you should be super proud of yourselves," said Jake Manera, one of the many participants who contributed to the restoration efforts.

"Wadeson Island has had major earthworks in the past; this is the next step: long-term, community-led kaitiakitanga," Watson added, highlighting the ongoing nature of the restoration work.

While only one planting day remains under the funded project, volunteers have committed to continuing work on the site beyond this period. Riverbank erosion at the site remains an ongoing challenge, but this project represents a critical first step in long-term erosion control and reducing sediment entering the river.

The restoration builds on years of previous work by many other organisations including Conservation Volunteers New Zealand, which had planted over 12,000 native trees, removed 3.5 tonnes of rubbish, and created an additional 1km of fish channels to give inanga safe places to breed and live.

"We're really proud that Wadeson Island is becoming something for the community to be proud of," Watson said. "It's right on the town's doorstep, so it's really accessible and very visible."

Persons interested in getting involved in the final planting event or future volunteer opportunities are encouraged to contact the group by email at wadeson@chris-nz.com or by phone at 022 092 0043.

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