Through its new partnership with NZ Landcare Trust, Fonterra has committed to funding wetland restoration in communities across New Zealand.
The partnership was officially launched at Donald’s farm in Whitford, Auckland, with Minister of Agriculture, Hon Todd McClay, in attendance, along with members of the NZ Landcare Trust board and representatives from Fonterra.
The grants will total NZD 250,000 over the next three years and will support community groups to restore and improve wetlands.
Fonterra’s Group Director of Global External Affairs, Simon Tucker, said partnership was key to delivering a meaningful impact for communities.
“Collaborating with our partners at NZ Landcare Trust ensures this investment supports communities at a grassroots level. We’re grateful to the many farmers, communities and volunteers who are passionate about caring for wetlands, preserving them for generations to come,” said Tucker.
For almost 30 years, NZ Landcare Trust has empowered farmers and catchment groups with expert guidance and free educational support, promoting sustainable practices for managing land and water resources. Through the new partnership, they will support the delivery of the grants to catchments nationwide.
NZ Landcare Trust CEO Dr Nick Edgar said wetlands were among the most productive ecosystems, vital in supporting biodiversity, improving water quality, and flood mitigation.
"We are proud to partner with Fonterra and local catchment groups to restore these essential environmental assets through collaborative, community-led stewardship. This initiative allows us to regenerate and protect wetlands with greater efficiency and meaningful impact”.
Wetlands play a crucial role in maintaining water quality, earning them the nickname the ‘earth's kidneys’. The natural ecosystems filter and purify the surrounding soil, improving water and land quality. They also function as sponges, absorbing excess water and significantly reducing the risk of flooding.
The new partnership was made possible through the Co-operative’s Doing Good Together programme, which focused on three pillars: putting good quality nutrition in the hands of those who need it most, providing care and support to keep rural communities strong, and empowering communities to protect and restore nature for future generations.
NZ Landcare Trust is a grassroots organisation supporting communities in beneficial land and water management practices. They partner with rural communities, catchment and landcare groups and other organisations to make a tangible difference in the future of New Zealand’s waterways.
