Environment > Wetlands

Wetlands are Essential

Swamps, drainage ditches and the like are often looked down upon but they are infact very important wetland ecosystems containing a vast number of different flora and fauna.

New Zealand has an appalling record at destroying these important ecosystems. There are less than 10 percent of original wetlands left!

Fish and Game New Zealand along with the Royal Forest and Bird Society, the National Wetlands Trust and the Department of Conservation have been fighting hard to protect the remaining wetlands and establish new ones.

This website section has useful information on the biological value of wetlands and how to establish them. You can also download these pamphlets:

Creating Wetlands

Wetland Restoration

Fish and Game is the lead agency for the annual World Wetlands Day event held every February 2 and you will find information on this campaign on World Wetlands Day.