QEII Protected Nature Sanctuary
Aotearoa (New Zealand)
From Paddocks to Sanctuary
Kia ora!
We're on a mission to transform and restore our 24 hectare (55 acre) hill-country farm to once again be a flourishing haven for native wildlife, and we invite you to be part of this extraordinary journey.
Six years ago, we took a leap of faith. We fenced off and planted out 5 hectares (12 acres) of our farm. Our efforts, dedication and care have been recognised by the Queen Elizabeth II National Trust (QEII) which granted us a covenant, meaning our nature sanctuary is protected forever.
Our sanctuary, Higgenz Bush, as we called it, showcases nature's incredible ability to bounce back when we restore native habitats:
- Tui and kereru have returned, their calls echoing through the canopy
- Indigenous plant species are flourishing once more
- The bush provides a sanctuary for us all to learn and connect with nature
But we're not stopping there!
Our Plans for 2025
We have earmarked the next areas of the farm to be converted, but we need your support to make it happen.
What Your Support Will Achieve:
- Continued Restoration of Native Habitats: Your support will help us fence off and plant more native trees and create homes for endangered species.
For 2025, we plan to fence off and plant out another 1 hectare (2.5 acres). To do this we will need 1,800 plants and covers as well as 250 metres (273 yards) of fencing.
- Create a Walking Trail: We'll build a nature walk where visitors can engage with nature.
We want to develop a 700m (765 yards) walking track so everyone is able to access and appreciate Higgenz Bush.
- Expand the Protected Area: Help us add more areas to our QEII covenant, ensuring this land remains a haven and reversing biodiversity decline forever.
This isn't just our project - it's a community effort to restore and protect a piece of Aotearoa for future generations.
By supporting us, you're becoming part of our extended whanau (family), helping to nurture this land back to health.
We've already seen the incredible impact that 5 hectares can have. Imagine what we could achieve together with your help to expand the restoration.
Join us in growing this sanctuary
Your contribution, whatever its size, will help restore and protect this precious area in Aotearoa:
- $25 could plant and nurture one native tree
- $100 could fund one meter of protective fencing or create part of a walking trail
- $250 could support both fencing and planting for a section
- $500 could help restore a significant habitat area
We welcome supporters to visit the sanctuary by appointment and see firsthand the transformation you're helping to create.
Contact us at info@koltevate.co.nz to arrange a guided tour of this special place we're protecting for future generations.