Protecting and restoring our natural biodiversity, spectacular coastal and inland landscapes is a collective, collaborative effort and part of our mission to be good ancestors here in Te Tauihu.

Often carried out by unsung volunteers, in Nelson Tasman we invite visitors to learn more about the amazing nature projects that are underway, and to create opportunities for everyone to participate in this rewarding and vital work.

By weaving in a restore and protect activity, your holiday can be more than a sightseeing tour, it can be legacy building, educational and impactful. Whatever your situation, there are activities happening across the region which are restoring and protecting our natural flora and fauna. Whether you want to plant a tree, sponsor a fence post or penguin box, engage in pest control, weed eradication or wildlife monitoring, there are options available to you.

Participating in, or supporting regenerative projects in the Nelson Tasman region will amplify your zero carbon holiday impact, turning it into a net positive for local community and the environment. 

Get inspired and take action by scrolling through the profiled activities below. A more comprehensive list of environmental activities happening in Te Tauihu can be found on the Tasman Environmental Trust website. Feel free to contact a group of your choice and see how you can connect, engage and amplify your work. 

Help birds return with HealthPost Nature Trust

Help birds return with HealthPost Nature Trust

Built in 2020, the three hectare predator proof Wharariki Ecosanctuary is sited on the stunning and unique clifftops at Cape Farewell.

Plant a Tree at Kaiteriteri Recreation Reserve

Plant a Tree at Kaiteriteri Recreation Reserve

Explore the world-famous Abel Tasman National Park and get your hands dirty planting native trees and plants in the 242-hectare Kaiteriteri Recreation Reserve.

Volunteer at the Brook Waimārama Sanctuary

Volunteer at the Brook Waimārama Sanctuary

The Brook Waimārama Sanctuary is the largest fenced sanctuary for endangered plants and creatures in the South Island, and located a short 10 minutes' drive from Nelson’s CBD.

Planting, trapping and track maintenance in Rameka Carbon Forest

Planting, trapping and track maintenance in Rameka Carbon Forest

Situated in Golden Bay, Project Rameka is a carbon sink, focusing on forest restoration, biodiversity, and non-motorised recreation.

Take part in the Tahunanui Big Beach Clean Up

Take part in the Tahunanui Big Beach Clean Up

Tahuna Beach Holiday Park is proud to host a bi-annual big beach clean-up of Tahunanui Beach.

Buy a trap to support predator eradication at Farewell Spit

Buy a trap to support predator eradication at Farewell Spit

Buy a trap and support predator eradication at Farewell Spit with Pest Free Onetahua.

Give Nature A Helping Hand with Friends of Rotoiti

Give Nature A Helping Hand with Friends of Rotoiti

In 2001 the Friends of Rotoiti (FOR) was formed as a partnership between a motivated group of locals and the Department of Conservation.

Sponsor a penguin nesting box with Mohua Penguin Trust

Sponsor a penguin nesting box with Mohua Penguin Trust

The Mohua Penguin Trust was formed to preserve, protect and enhance the population of Little Blue Penguins also known as Koroā and their habitat in Golden Bay.

Take your time, go slow and see the sights at the perfect pace.

Enjoy unique experiences and connect with nature every day. Fall in love with Nelson Tasman in ways that make you feel great while leaving a light footprint. 

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