Since 1997 dedicated volunteers have worked to restore the native ecology of Ōtamahua or Quail Island. The Trust has eradicated most pests (except for mice) from the island and planted thousands of trees as part of an eco-restoration project in partnership with the Department of Conservation and Ngati Wheke of Rapaki.
Volunteer groups contribute more than 5,600 hours annually, weeding, planting and monitoring traps. As the plantings mature, the island is slowly being transformed. Native bird numbers have increased as trees mature and provide more nesting sites and a more varied food source.
The Trust needs to raise $100,000 annually for its on-going replanting and pest eradication programmes. Please help by becoming a member and making a donation via the links below.
Our 2020 planting is complete, with 3000 plants safely in the ground, bringing the total number of trees planted over the past 23 years to 100,000.
Thank you to our sponsors - Rata Foundation, Whaka-Ora Healthy Harbour, Tutto Bene and Formaggio's Italian restaurants, the Ministry for Primary Industries’ Matariki Tu Rākau Fund, Christchurch City Council, Lyttelton Port Company, Black Cat Cruises, PGG Wrightson, Rotary Sunrise, The Sargood Bequest, Trees that Count, Terra Lana, and Daltons.
