Protect. Restore. Empower Aotea’s Future.

Community-led ecological restoration on Aotea / Great Barrier Island.

Working alongside mana whenua, residents, landowners, and partners to protect biodiversity and restore native ecosystems for generations to come.

Why Aotea

Aotea / Great Barrier Island is one of Aotearoa’s last truly wild places — home to unique ecosystems and species found nowhere else

Located 100 km northeast of Auckland, its isolation makes it special, but also vulnerable. Introduced pests, invasive weeds, and human activity all pose risks to native biodiversity. Protecting Aotea’s environment requires local knowledge, long-term care, and strong community collaboration.

Conservation on Aotea
  • Group of people planting trees in a grassy field with mountains in the background.
  • Close-up of a bird of prey, possibly a hawk or falcon, with a large hooked beak, dark eyes, and intricate feather patterns, holding its talon close to its face amid green foliage.
  • Trailhead for Peach Tree Track in a forested area with green foliage and a blue sky with clouds.
  • A view of the night sky showcasing numerous stars and the Milky Way galaxy.
  • Tryphena, Great Barrier Island
  • By Renee Freeland
  • Dirt trail winding through green shrubbery in a mountainous area under a partly cloudy blue sky.
  • Sandy beach with wooden walkway, green shrubbery on sand dunes, and ocean waves under a blue sky with clouds.

Community Group Directory

Ecology Vision acts as a connector, supporting collaboration across the island.

Discover local conservation and community groups working to protect Aotea’s environment.

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Latest News & Events

Featured
Aotea Ecology Festival 2026
Aotea Ecology Festival 2026

Join the Aotea Ecology Festival! Discover speakers, stalls, and displays, and celebrate the island’s biodiversity.

Time: 9.00am
Date: Saturday, 28 March
Location: Claris Sports & Social Club and Conference Centre

School Activities Week
School Activities Week

In the lead‑up to the Festival, island schools will be taking part in hands‑on ecology activities, including fresh water ecology experiences.

Date: 23-27 March

Think Like A Forest
Think Like A Forest

Think Like a Forest is an insightful film - and a great excuse for a night out at the Barrier Social Club.

Date: Monday, 9 March 2026
Time: 7:15pm
Location: Barrier Social Club

Upcoming Events

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