Applications for Auckland Council’s 2026 Waterway Protection Fund and Making Space for Rural Water Fund have opened for applications.
The funds support rural landowners and catchment groups working on private properties larger than five hectares to improve water quality, restore wetlands and reduce flood impacts on farm and downstream.
In Papakura, Donald’s Farm has teamed up with Conservation Volunteers New Zealand (CVNZ) to stabilise slips and restore gullies, creating a corridor of native trees and plants across the educational dairy farm.
Supported by the Waterway Protection Fund and Making Space for Rural Water Fund, the project mobilises volunteers from New Zealand and around the world to plant and maintain native species — with a new on-site nursery now boosting efforts.
Farm Manager, Sam Waugh says that as an educational dairy farm, they want their students to see what ‘good’ looks like, not just talk about it in a classroom.
“By working with Conservation Volunteers NZ to stabilise land and plant our gullies, we’re aiming for waterways clean enough to drink from and a continuous habitat where birds, insects and aquatic life can move safely through the farm,” he said.
Successful applicants typically receive up to 50% of project costs, alongside technical advice and practical support from Auckland Council specialists. Eligible projects include stock exclusion fencing, alternative water supplies for stock, site preparation and native planting, wetland restoration and fish passage improvements.
In the Matakana catchment, Ecomerit Farm has completed more than 1,200 metres of stock exclusion fencing and planted over 11,000 native plants with support from the fund.
General Manager, Philippa Ropata says the impact has been striking.
“Stock is now kept out of the waterways, ecosystems protected further, with an abundance of bird life nesting within the planting. What we didn’t expect was just how dramatic the change would be in slowing the flood water that over-runs the streams every now and then, and the improvement in our stream’s water quality which has become clearer. The project has exceeded our expectations,” she said.
This year, priority catchments include parts of Rodney (Matakana Stream, Kumeū/Huapai), Franklin (including Āwhitu, Slippery Creek, Hunua, Ōrere River catchments), Papakura, and Aotea/Great Barrier Island and more. These areas have been selected to maximise gains for freshwater habitat, water quality, and flood resilience.
Council says landowners only need to complete one application form to be considered for both funds.
Council Land Advisors are available to help scope projects, refine fencing and planting plans, and connect applicants with local catchment or community groups. Landowners are encouraged to get in touch early in the application window to strengthen their proposals.
Applications will close on 15 March.
To check eligibility and apply, visit the Auckland Council website or for more information contact ruralwaterways@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz.
