Beyond the "Canopy" - Rethinking How We Grow Native Forests

Beyond the Canopy – Rethinking How We Grow Native Forests explores practical, innovative approaches to establishing and regenerating native forests that go beyond traditional planting. Through presentations, case studies and discussion, the conference will highlight transition forestry, assisted natural regeneration, seed islands, improved monitoring and other emerging techniques that are helping to create resilient, self-sustaining native forests across Aotearoa New Zealand.

As our landscapes continue to evolve under the influence of climate change, introduced species and changing land use, the forests of tomorrow are unlikely to look exactly like those of today. This conference will explore how our practices, policies and restoration approaches can adapt to these challenges while creating landscapes where native flora and fauna can thrive for generations to come.

Whether you're a landowner, farmer, iwi or hapū representative, community restoration leader, local or central government practitioner, forester, ecologist, scientist or environmental professional, this is an opportunity to hear from leading experts, share ideas with peers and be part of the conversation shaping the future of native forest restoration in Aotearoa.

What we’ll explore

• Transition forestry

• Assisted natural regeneration

• Seed islands

• Innovative establishment techniques

• Monitoring and measuring success

• Building resilient forests for a changing climate

• Native forestry

• Practical case studies from across Aotearoa

Whether you're restoring a small block, managing a large-scale project, or developing policy, you'll leave with fresh ideas, practical knowledge and valuable new connections.

Why Attend?

✔ Learn practical alternatives to traditional planting

✔ Discover innovative restoration techniques 

✔ Hear directly from experienced practitioners and researchers

✔ Connect with people leading native forest restoration across Aotearoa

✔ Be part of the conversation shaping the forests of tomorrow

Check out our more details and our conference programme here