Natural Heritage Fund

The Natural Heritage Fund supports private landowners to protect and enhance indigenous biodiversity on their properties.

The fund is available in place of rates remissions for a limited number of eligible properties. Protecting and enhancing biodiversity is a core responsibility of regional and unitary councils.

Funding is available for privately owned land anywhere within the Gisborne district.

Up to $100,000 is available each funding round and may be allocated across one or more projects. Applications are assessed and ranked based on their biodiversity value, with funding approved according to the merits of each application and the funding available.

Eligible activities

Funding may be available for:

• Permanent stock-exclusion fencing to enable natural regeneration of indigenous vegetation (excluding the maintenance of existing fences).
• Purchase of locally sourced native plants and trees for voluntary new planting initiatives.
• Other practical measures that protect or enhance indigenous biodiversity may also be considered.

Apply for funding

• Check that you meet the eligibility criteria.
• Complete the application form.
• Provide all supporting information required with your application.

Applications open 1 July and close 20 August.

Submit your application

Email your completed application form and all supporting information to service@gdc.govt.nz by 20 August.

Is my project eligible?

Your project may be eligible for funding if it meets all of the following criteria:

• The project is on privately owned land within the Gisborne district.
• There are no overdue rates or other outstanding charges owing to Gisborne District Council.
• The project demonstrates a long-term commitment by the landowner to protect and enhance indigenous biodiversity.
• The project is unlikely to secure funding through central government sources.
• At least 50% of the total project cost is funded from another source.
• There is an ongoing commitment to maintain the natural area, including measures such as stock exclusion and where necessary, plant and animal pest control.
• Written permission from all landowner(s) is included with the application.

The following projects are not eligible for funding:

• Activities required as a condition of a resource consent.
• Activities required by rules in Gisborne District Council statutory plans.
• Projects that have already been completed or where costs have already been incurred (retrospective funding is not available).

Information required with your application

Your application must include:

• The location and address of the land, including the valuation assessment number(s) for the property or properties.
• The name and contact details of the landowner(s).
• A description of the project and its objectives in both the short and long term (please provide as much detail as possible).
• A sketch map or aerial photo showing the area to be treated.
• A description of the proposed activities and how they will improve indigenous biodiversity values.
• The estimated total cost of the project.
• Details of any other funding secured, including landowner contributions. At least 50% of the total project cost must be funded from another source.
• The expected outcomes and benefits of the project once fully implemented, such as enhanced wildlife habitat, increased biodiversity, or educational opportunities.
• Plans for the long-term management and maintenance of the indigenous biodiversity values.
• The name and contact details of the person or group responsible for coordinating the project.

Applications will be assessed and ranked on their biodiversity merit, with funding approved according to the funding available.