New IVL Funding to Support Whangamarino Wetland Restoration and Māhoenui Giant Wētā Breeding

Conservation Minister Tama Potaka has announced significant new investment to protect two of Aotearoa’s ecological treasures during a visit to the Waikato on Friday, 4 September 2026. The funding, sourced from the International Visitor Levy (IVL), is aimed at the restoration of the Whangamarino wetland and the protection of the endangered Māhoenui giant wētā. A substantial $2 million will be allocated over two years to initiate the Whangamarino Action Plan. Whangamarino is recognized as a Wetland of International Importance (Ramsar Site) but has faced significant degradation due to historical drainage, flooding, and the presence of invasive pest species like koi carp. Mr Potaka noted that the government is serious about restoring taonga sites, and this investment will enable critical work on water level management and infrastructure to improve biodiversity and water quality. In addition to the wetland restoration, the Minister announced a $75,000 grant for the Māhoenui giant wētā captive breeding programme at Otorohanga Kiwi House. This project is a collaborative effort delivered in partnership with Te Whare o Mōkau ki Runga (Ngāti Maniapoto). The Māhoenui giant wētā is one of the world's toughest and heaviest insect species but remains highly endangered. Since 2021, the partnership has successfully bred over 300 wētā in captivity. According to the Minister, this new IVL support aims to maximise breeding opportunities during the upcoming season to facilitate more releases into the wild. Mr Potaka highlighted that these insects hold a very special place in the insect kingdom and that the funding is a step toward securing the future of one of New Zealand’s most threatened invertebrate species for future generations.