2000 native trees were planted at this year's local industry planting day helping restore our region’s unique biodiversity and adding to a total of more than 6,000 trees planted through these collaborative industry efforts in the last two years.

‍

The spring storm didn't stop over 100 volunteers from the local business community braving the elements and rolling up their sleeves to plant 2,000 native trees at Jardine Park on Thursday 3 October.

Teams from dozens of local businesses came together in a joint community effort, showcasing the business community’s dedication to leaving a positive and lasting impact on Queenstown and its surrounding natural landscapes.

The industry planting day was made possible due to a collaboration between the Whakatipu Reforestation Trust (WRT), Mana Tāhuna, Love Queenstown, Skyline Queenstown, and the Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC).

Jardine Park is a QLDC reserve and one of the Whakatipu Reforestation Trust’s nine keystone sites. The industry planting day has doubled the number of native trees on the site, and there are plans to add to this in years to come.

A memorable moment for volunteers was supporting the planting of Whakatipu Reforestation Trust’s 100,000^th tree – a nod to more than ten years of dedication from the Trust, founded by Neil and Barb Simpson in 2013, and the support of passionate volunteers during that time.

Sararose Brown, Whakatipu Reforestation Trust Operations Manager, says this milestone stands as a testament to the Queenstown-Lakes district community’s commitment to environmental stewardship.

“Planting Whakatipu Reforestation Trust’s 100,000th tree is a proud moment for our community. It’s a powerful symbol of what can be achieved when we work together to restore native biodiversity.”

“Planting native species is a vital part of safeguarding Queenstown’s unique ecosystems and natural landscapes. Events like these not only contribute to the restoration of native habitat but also help to build climate resilience” Sararose said.

Skyline Queenstown's “care team” worked as team leaders on the day, leading crews of planters and supporting the site preparations on the day. They also kept spirits high with a shared BBQ and delicious baked goods which fuelled the volunteers throughout the day.

And of course, the Whakatipu Reforestation Trust and Mana Tāhuna Charitable Trust whose tireless work never goes unnoticed. As well as celebrating their 100,000^th tree, the Reforestation Trust also celebrated 10 years of community led restoration in 2024; a remarkable achievement and a true testament to their commitment to recloaking the Whakatipu Basin.

Despite the rain, the atmosphere was one of camaraderie and shared purpose, as volunteers reflected on the significant impact of the combined planting efforts over the years. Ash Bickley, Love Queenstown Community Fund Coordinator, was thrilled with the turnout at Jardine Park, and the commitment the tourism community has shown since Love Queenstown was established last year.

“Love Queenstown exists to connect our visitors and visitor industry with opportunities to donate, lend a hand, and give back to our local environment. It’s so heartening to see our business community come together in this way.”

Click here for more information on future planting events and sign up to the mailing list to be in the know.