Applications open May 1st and close 30 June 2026.
Please ensure your application is finalised before the deadline.
Project Overview
Fonterra has partnered with NZ Landcare Trust (NZLT) to support wetland restoration across rural Aotearoa, committing $250,000 per year to fund community restoration projects. To date, NZLT has worked alongside Fonterra Regional Committees to support projects that strengthened wetland management, created new on-farm wetlands, and built long-term care and stewardship.
Since the partnership launched in April 2025, strong interest was received from groups and landowners across the country, with 49 expressions of interest received. From these, 16 projects were selected for funding across the first two years, supporting hands-on restoration and positive environmental outcomes in regions throughout New Zealand.
Fonterra and NZ Landcare Trust are continuing their partnership to support wetland restoration efforts across Aotearoa New Zealand.
Grants of up to $60,000 are available in 2026.
Preferred Projects
✓ Prioritise tangible actions that restore the ecological health of existing wetlands or construct new ones at suitable sites within the catchment. These efforts should aim to improve both water quality and overall ecological well-being.
✓ Focus on areas with significant dairy land use.
✓ Ensure all projects are undertaken in partnership with mana whenua.
✓ Establish local partnerships that leverage cash or in-kind contributions from partners and landowners.
✓ Deliver improved short- and long-term outcomes for nature and/or provide climate resilience benefits for the local community.
✓ Secure appropriate technical and specialist support, with a maintenance agreement in place.
Required Exclusions: Please note that projects primarily aimed at meeting regulatory requirements, consent conditions, or supplier standards are not eligible for this funding. Additionally, consenting costs are not covered under this programme.
Please subscribe to our newsletter and social media channels to receive updates about future opportunities.
In the meantime, we invite you to explore our website to learn more about our initiatives. If you have any questions or need further information, please contact us through our support page.
*Please note: Information provided in your Fonterra Restoring Wetlands Funding application may be shared with Fonterra New Zealand for the purposes of reviewing and assessing applications.
Wetlands Being Restored Across Aotearoa
Fonterra Launch April 2025
