Matuku

LINK WETLAND RESTORATION PROJECT A Three-Year Partnership to Restore New Zealand’s Native Wetlands
Overview
With the aim to restore native ecosystems, protect endangered wildlife, and foster environmental conservation among the community members, especially youth, we launched a 3 year partnership with Matuku Link, one of West Auckland’s most significant wetland conservation projects.

Commemorated in November 2025

The agreement with the Matuku Link Trust marks a long-term commitment to safeguarding one of New Zealand’s valuable wetland reserves.
Why Matuku Link?
Matuku Link is a community-led conservation initiative dedicated to protecting and restoring the Matuku wetland—a crucial ecological corridor that connects the Waitākere Ranges to the Tasman Sea. Home to endangered native bird species, the wetland plays a vital role in biodiversity, climate resilience, and water purification.

Matuku Link’s remarkable conservation work was recently honoured with a Gold Star at the Wetland Link International Awards, making it one of just three wetlands globally to receive this award in the year.
Dr. John Sumich, founding Trustee of the Matuku Reserve Trust, shared:
Project Rise Interventions

1- Wetland Replanting & Habitat Restoration

  • Restoration of one acre of wetland vegetation.
  • Planting of 4,000 native wetland plants, sourced locally for ecological authenticity.
  • Rehabilitation of degraded areas to improve water absorption, reduce erosion, and support native species regeneration.

2- Expanded Pest Control Measures

  • Enhancement of pest management activities to protect vulnerable wildlife.
  • Reduction of threats to species such as the Matuku (bittern), pateke (brown teal), and native eels.
  • Support for long-term ecological balance across the wetland reserve.

3- Strengthening Biodiversity Corridors

  • Integrating Matuku Link’s efforts with other conservation projects across West Auckland.
  • Supporting connectivity from the Waitākere Ranges all the way to the Tasman Sea, allowing wildlife to move safely between habitats.

4- Community Volunteering & Environmental Education

  • Regular planting and weeding days involving families, children, and youth.
  • Guided educational walks to teach young community members about wetlands, wildlife, and conservation methods.
  • Opportunities for volunteers to learn from environmental experts and support ongoing field activities.
Shabbir Rajkotwala
representative of the Auckland Bohra community, said:
Community Connection & Values
The partnership reflects the Dawoodi Bohra community’s commitment to:

Environmental responsibility, sustainability, preservation of natural ecosystems and educating future generations to care for the earth

It aligns seamlessly with our global focus areas, which include environment, nutrition, education, health, and women’s empowerment.
Long-Term Vision
Over the next three years, this partnership aims to:
  • Restore wetland ecosystems to a healthy, thriving state
  • Expand habitat for endangered native species
  • Strengthen community involvement in environmental protection
  • Build a sustainable model of faith-driven conservation
  • Leave behind a lasting environmental legacy for future generations
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