We started Restore Native because we wanted to see more native trees in the ground and more areas of land given the chance to recover.

That work matters to us. Every wet corner, stream bank, retired paddock or school boundary that is planted becomes part of something bigger: healthier waterways, more habitat and more native birds returning to the places they belong.

Over the years, we’ve been fortunate to work alongside schools, catchment groups, conservation projects, farmers and local communities across the Waikato. Sometimes we’ve contributed plants. Other times it has been advice, funding, time or a team willing to get stuck in.

The real credit belongs to the people who care for these places and keep the work going long after planting day. We’re proud to have played a part.

In 2026, we were grateful to be named a finalist in the Waikato Business Awards Community Contribution category—recognition we share with our team and the communities we work alongside.

This page shares some of the community projects and past programmes that have meant a great deal to us.

Our community involvement

Community planting support

We’ve helped schools, catchment groups and community organisations turn planting ideas into achievable restoration projects.

Our contribution has included native plants, practical advice and help getting projects underway. We’re grateful to have worked alongside the people who continue caring for these places.

Te Miro Kiwi Project

The Te Miro Kiwi Project brings local landowners and volunteers together around the goal of returning kiwi to the
Te Miro bush.

Adam Thompson established the project, which focuses on predator control, habitat protection and community involvement. Restore Native contributes native plants and practical support alongside the many people helping the project progress.
Read more about the project and how you can support here.

Farming Futures Environmental Scholarship

The Farming Futures Environmental Scholarship supported young people from farming backgrounds who cared about the future of the land.

It was one way we could back students who understood farming, valued the rural environment and wanted to contribute to practical environmental work. The scholarship provided financial support and paid, hands-on experience in native restoration.

Trees for Schools

Our annual Trees for Schools programme has helped over 50 Waikato rural schools put native plants in the ground and gave students a hands-on connection to restoration.

It gave students a chance to learn about biodiversity by helping to create it in their own school grounds. Through the programme, eligible schools could request native plants for planting projects on their grounds.

Flood recovery support

Restore Native has contributed native plants and practical assistance to flood-affected communities.

This work helped restore damaged areas, stabilise vulnerable land and support longer-term recovery. It showed how carefully planned native planting can help protect soil, waterways and habitat.

Have a community
project in mind?

While our previous programmes are no longer open, we’re always interested in hearing about worthwhile restoration projects in the communities that support us.

We may be able to contribute plants, practical advice or other support, depending on the project and what we have available.

Tell us about your project