Home / Environment / 29 Years of Student Planting Transforms NZ Coastline
29 Years of Student Planting Transforms NZ Coastline
17 Aug
Summary
- Students planted over 12,000 native plants in 29 years.
- The project transformed bare pasture into thriving native vegetation.
- Restored habitat now supports diverse wildlife including penguins and seals.
For nearly three decades, students from Buller High School have undertaken a significant environmental restoration project at Tauranga Bay and Cape Foulwind, New Zealand. Led by retired teacher Janet Pottinger, generations of students participated in planting native vegetation as part of the school's Year 9 environmental program.
Since 1997, approximately 2,800 students were involved in 108 planting trips, establishing over 12,425 plants. This sustained effort has transformed the landscape from bare pasture and windswept grassland into areas rich with native shrubs and trees.
The final planting occurred in November 2025, coinciding with Pottinger's retirement. The once open grassland is now covered in native vegetation, creating vital shelter and habitat for numerous species.
This restored ecosystem now supports sooty shearwaters, blue penguins, weka, seals, and various other native birds, lizards, and invertebrates. The project has been recognized with multiple conservation awards.
Pottinger noted the students' consistent enthusiasm, with many returning to witness the growth of their planted trees. The Department of Conservation highlighted the project's success as a testament to the value of consistent, regular conservation work.
