Southern Environmental Association (Wellington) Incorporated

Since 1992 the Southern Environmental Association (SEA) has been dedicated to the ecological restoration of Tawatawa Reserve, a 64-hectare nature reserve located in South Wellington.

We are a small volunteer organisation made up of people passionate about the environment. Our volunteers donate approximately 1,900 hours every year to growing and planting trees, weed and predator control and track maintenance. We work closely with Wellington City Council, and together with numerous volunteers, we have planted over 50,000 trees over the last 30 years.

A significant part of the area was a landfill in the 1970's, but after many decades of restoration work, Tawatawa Reserve is now a place of regenerating native bush, coastal forest, and wetlands. It is a popular destination for trampers, runners, mountain bikers, and is a very popular off-leash dog exercise area.

SEA have a small nursery located on the reserve, dedicated to growing native trees to plant in Tawatawa and other local reserves using eco-sourcing techniques.

Donations made to the SEA are put toward conservation projects around Wellington’s South Coast, including:

- Potting mix and supplies for the native tree nursery

- Tools and equipment for planting, releasing, and track maintenance

- The completion of the steps along the Paekawakawa Link Track

- New information signage and maps for Tawatawa Reserve.

All the work we do is funded through donations or grants, so any contribution is very much appreciated.