Growing a Forest - Come and get inspired!

Welcome to an eight-year revegetation project in the Moutere Valley.

Since 2017 Philip and Jenny Leith have been revegetating gullies on their farm, extending and creating new wetlands as well as establishing biodiverse habitats.

In 2025 they decided to link two gullies by planting a podocarp forest to create an extended habitat and to act as a seed source for the 20 or more gullies already planted on their farm.

They invite you to share their vision for why they undertook this work and how restoring our wetlands and land helps regenerate biodiversity and the climate, as well as their practical experience, to inspire you and begin your own land restoration journey.

The visit will take you walking up Moore Road, which is also known as ‘Weka Walk’, where the group will view plantings at various stages of establishment.

Alongside planting and maintenance of the wetland and forest habitat, Philip and Jenny are undertaking extensive predator trapping. Currently capturing at least 10 predators every week. Regularly, they host school groups and students from Whenua Iti Outdoors for experiential learning.

They open their place with pleasure, but would greatly appreciate your registration. Some practical information, as well as the precise address, will be sent to you in the email you receive after registration.

This event is part of the 2025 Climate Action Festival. See the full program here.