Nestled in the lush Waitākere River Valley, Matuku Link is a community-driven conservation project dedicated to restoring and protecting one of Auckland’s most precious ecosystems. Named after the endangered matuku-hūrepo (Australasian bittern), with only an estimated 700 left in New Zealand, Matuku Link provides a vital sanctuary for this elusive wetland bird and many other native species.
Since its founding in 2016, the Matuku Reserve Trust has transformed 37 hectares of former farmland into a thriving native habitat. Over 30,000 eco-sourced native plants have been planted with the help of hundreds of volunteers, creating a vital ecological corridor that connects local conservation projects and boosts biodiversity.
Matuku Link’s focus includes restoring wetlands through planting and pest control. Volunteers play a key role in managing traplines and bait stations to reduce threats from introduced predators. Their work has supported the successful reintroduction of the pāteke (brown teal), once extinct in the area.
In 2018, we helped by donating $85,225 through our Million Dollar Mission towards the conversion of an old barn into a sustainable wetland education centre. This facility now serves as the hub for school groups and community workshops, reinforcing the link between conservation and education. Education is a major part of the initiative. Through programmes like Te Kaupapapa Rohe Kōreporepo, over 1,000 schoolchildren annually get hands-on experience with activities such as eel feeding, bird spotting, and water testing, helping to build strong connections with nature. Community involvement is encouraged through regular volunteer days and events like the popular VIP Kayak Day also offer fun ways to support the cause while enjoying the wetlands.
Our recent visit to Matuku Link was both informative and inspiring. From feeding eels to learning about native wildlife, it was a memorable day that highlighted the incredible impact of community-led conservation.
How can you get involved?
- Volunteer: Help with planting, weeding, and pest control.
- School Visits: Book an interactive environmental education session.
- Attend Events: Join activities like VIP Kayak Day.
- Donate: Support ongoing restoration and education efforts
Matuku Link is proof that grassroots efforts can drive meaningful environmental change. Visit matukulink.org.nz to learn more or get involved.
