This project aims to achieve a catchment-scale restoration of native riparian ecosystems and wetlands, and improved water quality for the Moutere River and its tributaries (14,680ha; 524km of waterways), and Inlet (760ha).

The project joins two groups: the Moutere Catchment Group (MGC) and the Moutere Inlet and Tasman Environmental Restoration Group (MITER). The waterways in both catchments (Tasman and Moutere Valleys) feed into the Moutere Inlet. By working together, the groups aim to improve the environment, water quality and employment opportunities in the area.

With an initial contribution from Trees That Count, and significant ongoing contributions from NZ Landcare Trust and Tasman District Council and Te Uru Rākau, as well as many enthusiastic landowners, this is a massive collaborative effort and a “once in a lifetime” opportunity for the local community.

Thanks to a $1.9 million grant from the One Billion Trees initiative we will plant over 350,000 plants in the Moutere Catchment between 2020 and 2024. This is 80,000 plants more than the funding required and is a massive achievement by the Moutere Catchment Group and all the participating landowners.

To support this 51 km of fencing was installed (2021and 2022), protecting current and future plantings along waterways and wetlands thanks to a $950,000 grant from the Provincial Development Unit.

Our key goals include:

• An estuary and surrounds with an improving environmental state, leading to better habitat, increased biodiversity, more recreational opportunities and which is valued by residents and visitors alike.
• Restoring the Moutere Estuary and its connected river and streams to ecological health.
• Creating a social connection to the community now and in future, that will sustain the mana and mauri of the waterways.