Lewis Tops © Mark Bridgwater
As one of the largest branches in New Zealand, the North Canterbury branch covers Canterbury north of the Rakaia River up into the heart of the Lewis Pass, from the sea to the Alps.
We organise field trips to places of interest around the region. We have working bees at our projects Calder Green Reserve (on the lower Heathcote) and Mahoe-nui Bush (behind Sumner), The Sanctuary (on the side of the Waimakariri at the edge of Christchurch) and Middelmost Mudfish Restoration Project (near Oxford). Volunteers go to Boyle Base (in the Lewis Pass) to work on our trapping programme and to do other work in the area. We also have an area in the Craigieburn which we clear wilding pines from.
We also have a very active Kiwi Conservation Club for children who go on some fantastic field trips all over the region.
What We Do
Come along to our monthly public meetings at the WEA in Christchurch, on the second Tuesday of each month at 7.30pm. Guest speakers at our monthly talks discuss various environmental topics and issues.
We run regular field trips and volunteer days. Have a look at our programme of events to see if there is anything that tickles your fancy!
This grant offers research support for post-graduate students at the University of Canterbury and Lincoln University undertaking conservation or environmental related projects in Canterbury.
For a summary of what we did in the 2016 - 2017, read our Annual Report and the reports for the Middelmost and 'Sanctuary' projects.
Our Projects
Boyle Base Stoat Trapping & Monitoring
We trap and monitor pests around Boyle Base Hut in Lewis Pass to protect local bird populations.
We're maintaining this 'open sanctuary' to protect and enhance the indigenous flora and fauna of the area.
Mahoe-nui Bush Restoration Project
We plant trees, trap pests, and help to regenerate this patch of remnant forest above the Port Hills.
In partnership with Working Waters Trust and Althea McLean (the land owner), we provide habitat for the 'nationally endangered' Canterbury Mudfish.
Our new braided river project is on the Waimakariri and is a partnership project with the Parks and Reserves team of Environment Canterbury, in particular with Greg Stanley, who has been doing wonderful work in the area.
Gifted to Forest & Bird in 1966 by Mrs. Sophia Rhodes, this reserve is situated in the heart of Governor's Bay.
We often write submissions on important issues and have representatives on a number of boards and committees.
Volunteering
There are plenty of ways for you to get involved with our branch as a volunteer.
We are always looking for help with our major projects, meetings, newlsetter, and fundraising.
You could help our branch by:
- Joining our Committee
- Attending our monthly meetings
- Contributing to the branch newsletter
- Participating in scheduled planting and plant maintenance days
- Supporting pest control and weed eradication projects
- Making a donation to Forest & Bird’s North Canterbury Branch
- Helping with submissions, funding applications and monitoring
The Latest
Subscribe to our email newsletter to stay up to date with our field trips, talks and campaigns. We'll also include articles of interest and ways you can help us to protect the environment.
Check out our Canterbury-wide Facebook page to stay updated with environmental issues and activities in the region.
Support our branch by ordering a conservation diary or calendar, filled with stunning photos of native flora and fauna by leading nature photographers.
Contains background information to our talks and other useful information.