Air New Zealand Every Corner Project delivers 1,531 native plants against a target of 500

An Air New Zealand Every Corner Project on Hokitika's Wadeson Island has delivered 1,531 native plants — three times its original target of 500 — across five community planting days that contributed 60 volunteer-days to the island's restoration.

The project was a partnership between Pōkeka Poutini Ngāi Tahu and the Wadeson Island Volunteer Group, with funding from Air New Zealand's Every Corner Project. During the delivery period, the volunteer group formalised its commitment to the island by establishing the Wadeson Island Conservation Trust (WICT), a registered charitable trust that will continue and expand restoration work on Wadeson Island into the future.

About Wadeson Island

Wadeson Island sits on the edge of Hokitika township within the tidal estuary of the Hokitika River. The site functions as whitebait habitat, a stormwater buffer, and a popular public walkway, but has faced ongoing pressure from erosion and invasive weeds. The Every Corner Project planting focused on stabilising banks, enhancing habitat for wading birds and whitebait, and strengthening the island's resilience against the ever-present threat of erosion.

Mana Whenua Voice

Pōkeka Poutini Ngāi Tahu, as mana whenua and lead applicant for the funding, recognised the cultural significance of Wadeson Island as mahinga kai and its importance to the identity and wellbeing of Poutini Ngāi Tahu whānau.

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"The partnership is a practical expression of our shared commitment to kaitikitanga and restoring the health of our waterways."

— Makaawhio / Pōkeka Environmental

Community-Led Delivery

The Wadeson Island Volunteer Group managed all practical delivery — planning, site preparation, plant sourcing, and coordination of planting days. The energy and commitment generated during the project led directly to the formation of The Wadeson Island Conservation Trust (WICT), ensuring the momentum built during the Every Corner Project will carry forward.

"We started as a group of locals who cared about this place, and this project showed us what's possible when a community comes together. Forming the Trust means we can keep building on what we've started."

— WICT Spokesperson

The native plants, including species suited to riparian and estuarine conditions, were placed in pasture and near channel margins and erosion-prone banks where they will help hold soil, filter stormwater, and provide food and shelter for native fish and birds.

Building on Two Decades of Restoration

The project adds to a restoration legacy on Wadeson Island spanning more than two decades and involving DOC, the West Coast Regional Council, Westland District Council, iwi, businesses, community groups and charities. Earlier phases of work delivered by Conservation Volunteers New Zealand saw more than 12,500 native trees planted, a kilometre of fish channels created, and over 3,500 kg of rubbish removed as it collaborated with other organisations and stakeholders.

"Getting my hands in the dirt on planting day and looking around at everyone working together — that's what community is all about. I can't wait to bring visiting friends here in a few years and show them what we grew."

— A planting day participant

Looking Ahead

WICT looks forward to continuing its partnership with Pōkeka Poutini Ngāi Tahu and working with other organisations, funders, and community groups to protect and enhance Wadeson Island for generations to come. Community members interested in getting involved with restoration on Wadeson Island or learn about its history are encouraged to contact WICT by email at wadeson@chris-nz.com or by phone at 022 092 0043.

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