About Us
The Mōkihi Reforestation Trust was established in 2016. Named after the Te Reo word for raft, Mōkihi were fashioned mainly from raupo/bulrushes and harakeke/flax. These simple vessels were excellent for traversing lakes and voyaging rivers. The name references the idea of floating the seed (Te Kākano) down the might of the Clutha River (Mata-Au) to restore and regenerate native plants, wetlands and forests, on its journey to the coast. We have planted over 6,500 plants and average 1000+ volunteer hours per year, and have a core team of loyal supporters which is growing quickly. Currently we have three keystone sites that have been chosen for their public accessibility and suitability for restoration work.
Next Community Planting Day:
Our next planting day for 2026 is on Sunday 16th August at Richards Beach - turn off Bannockburn Road at the Polytech and then take the first left to head down to the car park below the oxidation ponds. Starting from 10 am and concluding at 12 noon with tea / coffee and biscuits. Just bring yourselves, no planting experience is needed, but a pair of gardening gloves is useful. We provide the tools and dig the holes beforehand.
Plants Planted
Volunteer Hours YTD
Planting Days
We regularly hold planting and/or maintenance days from Autumn through to Spring. We welcome helpers of all ages and have an array of different tasks available regardless of age and experience. Find out more
What we do
Our volunteers plant eco-sourced native plants, from seeds collected locally, on public land. Community planting days are held from the late-autumn to spring with maintenance days held throughout the year.
Why
As more native species become established, the overall biodiversity of our area increases, providing additional support to our struggling native wildlife. As more areas are planted, viable populations of indigenous plants and wildlife can be sustained.
Keystone Sites
We currently have three keystone sites located around the Cromwell & Lake Dunstan region. Planting commenced at Richards Beach in 2016 and has over 3000 plants in situ. Our site at the 45th Parallel is our most challenging due to the harsh terrain and the large rabbit population. Our latest site at Stuart Ferry commenced in 2020 and is just before the Bannockburn Bridge.
Our Locations
Richards Beach
Richards Beach Road
Cromwell
Off Cromwell-Bannockburn Road beside the Otago Polytechnic Glasshouse
Next Planting Date:
Saturday August 16th 2026
45th Parallel
45th Parallel Monument
500m past the Lowburn Inlet
SH 6, Luggate-Cromwell Road
Next Planting Date:
To be advised
Stuart Ferry
Bannockburn Road
Opposite Pearson Road
Just before the Bannockburn Bridge
Next Planting Date:
To Be Advised
