ESAI – Rakaia Road.
Native Planting.
Restoring Lowland Biodiversity Through Kaitiakitanga.
Project partner: Ellesmere Sustainable Agriculture Inc.
Ellesmere Sustainable Agriculture Inc. (ESAI), with support from the Environmental Management Fund (EMF), has partnered with the landowner at 447 North Rakaia Road, Southbridge, to restore lowland biodiversity through targeted riparian and wetland planting. Building on Project Tinaku’s success—nearly 50,000 natives across 60 sites—this latest stage has established 3,950 seedlings across six farms, including 447 North Rakaia Rd, bringing ESAI’s total plantings to nearly 54,000.
This is restoration at scale. Each site has been assessed and mapped, with planting focused on waterways and wet areas to improve water quality, protect soils, and restore habitat. Contractor support from TerraCare ensures technical oversight, while landowners provide long-term commitment to maintenance, fencing, and stewardship.
The project strengthens a culture of kaitiakitanga — supporting landowners as environmental guardians and demonstrating how working farms can deliver lasting ecological gains across the Te Waihora catchment.
Impact.
Short term.
- 3,950 native plants established across six sites.
- Riparian and wetland zones targeted for water quality and habitat benefits.
- Strong farmer engagement and ecological coordination.
Long term.
- Nearly 54,000 native plants established through ESAI restoration projects.
- Strengthened biodiversity and improved freshwater health in the Te Waihora catchment.
- Scalable model of farmer-led kaitiakitanga supported by technical expertise.
- A catchment-wide model for collaborative, landowner driven restoration.
