Queenstown Airport commits to biodiversity planting project

During Conservation Week, Te Wiki Tiaki Ao Tūroa, 5 September to 11 September 2022, Queenstown Airport (ZQN) will expand its long-standing relationship with the Whakatipu Reforestation Trust to develop a three-year local biodiversity planting project.

The airport has partnered with the Whakatipu Reforestation Trust since 2016, providing provide financial and in-kind support to help the Shotover Wetlands restoration project, which involves native planting, predator trapping, clearance of exotic vegetation and maintenance, and the creation and maintenance of recreational pathways.

The Shotover Wetland is home to nationally and internationally threatened plant species. According to the Whakatipu Reforestation Trust, approximately 2,200 native plants have been planted to date. 

Natalie Reeves, Sustainability Manager at Queenstown Airport said: “We are really excited to be working with the local community on this initiative and lending our support to build on the great work already achieved by the founding members of the project. We see this as a project with long-term benefit to enhance and restore biodiversity within the Whakatipu Basin, create resilience against a changing climate, and provide educational opportunities for our tamariki [children].”

Jo Smith, Education Officer at the trust commented: “Our dual objectives for the project are the reforestation and ecological enhancement of the wetland and providing education opportunities for Shotover Primary students, the Shotover community and for Wetland visitors from near and far. We are pleased to welcome Queenstown Airport to the project whanau [extended family] and look forward to expanding the project’s reach with their support.”