2,400 native trees were planted at this year’s local Industry Planting Day, helping restore our region’s unique biodiversity and adding to a total of more than 8,500 trees planted through these collaborative efforts over the past three years.

On Thursday 16 October, 140 volunteers from the local business community rolled up their sleeves at Jardine Park, one of the Whakatipu Reforestation Trust’s (WRT) nine keystone sites. Teams from local businesses and volunteer groups came together in a joint effort to plant 2,400 native trees, showcasing the tourism industry’s dedication to leaving a positive and lasting impact on Queenstown and its surrounding natural landscapes.

Now in its second year of a three-year restoration programme, the large-scale planting event at Jardine Park is a collaborative effort between Love Queenstown, the Whakatipu Reforestation Trust, Skyline Queenstown, and the Queenstown Lakes District Council. Additional support this year came from Air New Zealand, Trees That Count, Bupa, TRAC and Ryd.

There’s nothing quite like getting your hands in the soil alongside passionate locals, businesses, and partners who care deeply about Queenstown’s environment. Each plant represents a shared commitment to restoring and protecting the Whakatipu Basin’s ecosystems, and a tangible reminder of what’s possible when we work together.

“This project is a wonderful example of what happens when industry and community work hand in hand. Each year we see this site come alive with new growth, and with the energy and care of the volunteers who make it possible” says Sararose Brown, Operations Manager at WRT.

Skyline Queenstown’s care team played a leading role on the day, guiding planting crews, supporting site preparations, and keeping everyone well-fed with a shared BBQ, croissants, and coffee for morning and afternoon tea.

And of course, a huge thank you to the Whakatipu Reforestation Trust, whose tireless work never goes unnoticed. The WRT team are true experts in native restoration. Since 2014, WRT have led the planting of over 100,000 eco-sourced native trees throughout the Whakatipu Basin, creating islands of biodiversity, building climate resilience, and connecting the community to their land. Their small but mighty crew makes it possible for local businesses, volunteers, and visitors alike to step in and make a real difference.

Despite having four seasons in one day, everyone was in good spirits and united by a shared purpose, as volunteers reflected on the significant impact of the combined planting efforts over the years.

Ash Bickley, Love Queenstown Community Fund Coordinator, was delighted with the turnout and the continued commitment the business community has shown since Love Queenstown was established in 2023.

“Seeing over 140 volunteers come together from across the industry really shows the collective commitment to giving back to the places that sustain us,” says Ash.  “It’s about building climate resilience, supporting biodiversity, and creating a legacy we can all be proud of.”

Click here for more information on future planting events and sign up for the Love Queenstown mailing list to stay in the know.