Porirua Harbour Restoration fund 2016 open

Applications for Greater Wellington Regional Council's annual fund for community groups focussed on environmental restoration around Te Awarua-o-Porirua Harbour catchment opens tomorrow, Thursday 1 September 2016.

The contestable fund was established last year and aims to support passionate community groups in their efforts to restore ecosystems in public areas around Te Awarua-o-Porirua Harbour catchment.  This area has bush, wetland and coastal habitats that support a diverse range of bird, fish and plant species.

Five groups received a share of $24,000 in 2015 for the production of plants, planting and preparatory weed control:

• Woodridge Planters - Belmont Stream and its tributaries 
• Aotea Conservation Volunteers - Kenepuru Stream tributary, sections in  Bothamley Park
• The Kahotea Stream Restoration Group - Kahotea Stream section in Onepoto Park
• Conservation Volunteers New Zealand - Thomson's Gully
• Duck Creek Restoration Group - Duck Creek Scenic Reserve location

"GWRC recognises that Te Awarua-o-Porirua harbour is one of the most significant areas in the region for native plants and animals.  We are working hard with our partners Porirua and Wellington City Councils and Te Rangatira o Rununga Toa to support people in the community to improve the health of the harbour and the streams that run into it. Together we can transform special places around the catchment into havens for people and our native wildlife to enjoy," says Tim Porteous GWRC Biodiversity Manager.

Grants from GWRC's Te Awarua-o-Porirua Harbour Catchment Restoration Fund can be used for native plants, materials to grow more native plants, pest plant and animal control, tools and refreshments for working bees.  Go to our webpage for application information, or call Jo Fagan, GWRC Biodiversity Advisor on: 04 830 4061 or biodiversity@gw.govt.nz. 

Applications for 2016 funding close 30th September 2016.

ENDS                                                          

Media enquiries to 021 914 266