Regenerate Wetlands
Wetlands are crucial for maintaining a healthy ecosystem, yet many are under significant threat. With support from Fonterra’s Doing Good Together Programme, we aim to empower communities to take action—protecting, restoring, and enhancing these vital environments for future generations. From building new wetlands to improving the ecological health of existing ones, our focus is on enabling projects that deliver long-term benefits.
Funding Priorities
Eligible projects should align with the following priorities to qualify for funding:
We are accepting Expressions of Interest for this funding round until April 15th 2025.
- Projects that involve tangible action to restore/enhance the ecological health of existing wetlands or to construct wetlands at appropriate sites within the catchment for public good.
- Projects in dairy intensive areas are preferred but other community-led projects are eligible for funding.
- Iwi-owned projects or farms.
- Projects with established local partnerships, that leverage contributions (cash and/or in-kind) from partners and landowners.
- Projects that demonstrate a connection to a catchment or community group and demonstrate a commitment to a wider community or catchment goal (beyond individual benefits or commercial gain).
- Projects with appropriate technical / specialist support and a maintenance agreement in place.
Key steps
Regional Partners and Community Groups can submit their Expressions of Interest (LINK BELOW)
NZLT Regional Coordinators will review submissions, provide strategic advice where needed, and work with Fonterra committees to select one project per region by June each year.
Successful projects will receive funding agreements outlining responsibilities, timelines, and budgets.
Project managers will implement the restoration efforts with support from NZLT Coordinators, ensuring projects align with community goals..
At the end of each project year, project managers will submit a concise report detailing outcomes, co-funding, expenditure, and visual documentation.
