URGENT Help to Protect the Vulnerable Te Henga Wetlands; You CAN Make a Difference

Te Henga is Auckland's largest remaining wetland and a vital sanctuary for threatened native species like the matuku-hūrepo (Australasian bittern), mātātā (fernbird), pūweto (spotless crake), pāteke (brown teal) and pekapeka tou-roa (New Zealand Long-tailed Bat).

But this fragile ecosystem is under threat. For two consecutive summers, 2025 and 2026, Te Henga has been subjected to large-scale aerial spraying of glyphosate for willow control. While aimed at restoration, this aggressive method has deeply alarmed local residents who have observed impacts on non-target vegetation and fear for the safety of our sensitive waterways and wildlife.

Wetlands take decades to recover from chemical degradation—some damage can never be reversed. Decisions affecting these environments demand far more care.

With the support of experienced lawyers, we are challenging aspects of the approval process through the courts. Our goal is to ensure that decisions affecting sensitive ecosystems are properly assessed, independently scrutinised, and held accountable under the law.

To do this, we need independent ecological evidence and expert reports to assess the impact on wetlands, native vegetation, waterways, and threatened species. We also face court filing fees and other legal costs.

Every contribution, large or small, makes a difference. Together, we can help protect Te Henga's wetlands, waterways, wildlife, and the natural heritage that future generations deserve to inherit. Thank you for your support.