Why Wetlands?

Wetlands are a forgotten habitat and many people under-rate their importance. Over 90 percent of New Zealand’s wetlands have been drained or filled. The Trust is working towards reversing this trend.

Wetlands have greater diversity of native birds, fish and plants than most other habitats, yet many wetland species are threatened with extinction. Wetlands have very high recreational, cultural and spiritual values, and perform vital ecosystem services such as improving water quality and reducing flood risks.

Wetlands are of cultural and spiritual significance to Maori. Wetlands provided Maori with food (particularly wildfowl, eels and other freshwater fish), taro cultivation, harakeke (flax) for weaving and other materials for medicinal, food, building, and craft use.