It’s been 10 years since Wānaka tourism operator Mark Orbell of Ridgeline began a flourishing partnership with a community plant nursery and the local district council to help re-green a patch of Glendhu Bay – a popular local recreation area with iconic views across the lake to Mt. Aspiring. 

More than 450 plantings later, the once bare lakeside location is almost unrecognisable with a forest of tall native trees and shrubs providing a haven for local wildlife and showcasing what a purposeful native habitat restoration initiative can achieve. 

Ridgeline is a premium operator of guided high-country walks, off-road safaris, and photography tours. The tours are designed to connect visitors with the region’s dramatic raw beauty through guided experiences and strong conservation values, Mark Orbell says. 

“Every Ridgeline guest is specifically contributing towards the Glendhu Bay planting project, as a percentage of all bookings are pegged for purchasing native trees to plant at this site. It is a chance for our guests to give something back to the Wānaka community.”

The tree planting programme operates in partnership with Te Kākano Aotearoa Trust and Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC). 

The native trees are grown by Te Kākano – a community-based, non-profit native plant nursery that specialises in propagating plants of local origin for localised native habitat restoration. The trust works with local community and business groups, and schools to promote hands-on community land care.

Ridgeline has launched two new conservation experiences, a hands-on Conservation Safari and a new group conservation experience tailored to the growing conference/incentive market coming to Queenstown and Wānaka. 

Ridgeline Hands-on Conservation Safari

The Hands-on Conservation Safari(opens in new window) is "the perfect opportunity for your clients to gain a deep and lasting connection with Wānaka," Mark says, "as they actively do good, give back and learn about our unique natural environment.”

Begin with a visit to Te Kākano, the community native plant nursery, which exists to inspire community native habitat through propagation, education and hands-on participation. Mix with passionate local volunteers while helping with daily nursery activities – potting up, watering or planting out. 

After refreshments, travel by 4WD into wild and spectacular Wānaka high country to see the predator control programme in action on West Wanaka Station. Learn about why trapping is necessary amid jaw-dropping scenery and life on an alpine farm.

Celebrate all your great work helping to protect Wanaka’s flora and fauna with a picnic lunch high over Lake Wānaka.