Tairāwhiti has experienced massive historic losses of a range of ecosystems and biodiversity. The Waingake Restoration Project is expected to lead to improved longterm land stability, which is critical given changing climate scenarios, with increased intensity and frequency of storm events. In addition to helping mitigate the effects of climate change, the project will support the sustained capacity for carbon storage in old and new growth forest at Waingake.

Supported by the planting efforts, we expect to see significant natural regeneration of indigenous vegetation occurring at Waingake, with an improvement in the structure and composition of the forest. We also expect noticeable recovery of indigenous fauna, particularly forest birds due to release from competition and predation pressure and improved habitat quality.

Cultural wellbeing for iwi partners is a key outcome for the programme. Working together in longterm partnership will enable mana whenua (indigenous owners) to actively restore a site of special significance and exercise their cultural traditions and practices. The project will create ongoing education, training and employment opportunities, leading to economic benefits.

In terms of wider community benefit, the program will deliver natural infrastructure to protect, filter and supply clean drinking water to Tairāwhiti/Gisborne, helping to provide water security, resilience and adaptation to climate change for the region.