Foundation Projects

Taranaki Mounga Project is restoring the ecological vitality of Taranaki’s mountain, ranges and islands. It is a collaborative partnership between the Taranaki iwi, Department of Conservation, NEXT Foundation and founding sponsors Shell NZ, TSB Community Trust, Jasmine Social Investments and Landcare Research/Manaaki Whenua, together with the wider community.

The restoration covers more than 34,000 hectares and has successfully removed goats, and introduced rat, stoat and possum control. Kiwi and other bird species have been re-introduced, and the native forest is rebounding.  

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Predator Free Wellington is aiming to be the first predator free capital city in the world – by eradicating all rats, mustelids and possums so native wildlife and communities thrive.

The project is a partnership between NEXT Foundation, Wellington City Council, Greater Wellington Regional Council, Taranaki Whānui ki Te Upoko o Te Ika, Department of Conservation and the wider community.

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Project Janszoon is restoring and preserving the Abel Tasman National Park’s rich wildlife for all to enjoy. The project  partners with iwi,  the Department of Conservation, Abel Tasman Birdsong Trust, tourism operators and the community – to eradicate pests and weeds, bring back native birds and bush, and inspire a culture of care for Abel Tasman National Park.

In 2026 the conservation work of Project Janszoon is being officially handed over to the Department of Conservation through the Tomorrow Accord. 

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Rotoroa Island is a predator free public conservation park and wildlife sanctuary in Auckland’s Hauraki Gulf. In 2007, NEXT benefactors Neal and Annette Plowman purchased  a 99-year lease from the Island’s owners, The Salvation Army, and through a trust embarked on a massive project to return it to the  ‘island of restoration’ it is today.

Native species have been returned and the island is a creche for endangered species like young kiwi and takahē. 

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