About

Early origin
NZERN (New Zealand Ecological Restoration Network) began in Christchurch in 1997. Its members wanted to establish a mutual assistance network for people who were carrying out their own ecological restoration projects. Another aim was to avoid duplication of scarce resources. In following years, grassroots membership spread to restoration groups in the rest of the South Island. In 2000, NZERN was formally established as a legal entity (Incorporated society with charitable status). In 2001, many groups in the Wellington region joined.

Initially, NZERN had great difficulty winning official recognition and raising funds. This led to many lost opprtunities to consolidate a single national association early on. Eventually, funding was obtained to buy equipment and resources. In 2005 significant software donations were received from ESRI and Microsoft in recognition of the pioneering efforts NZERN was making using the internet to distribute information to aid community led conservation.

Today
In 2006, NZERN was reorganised into three sister organisations, each with a different role to play - NZERN the network of restoration projects, Bush Telly to gather information and ERIS to provide computer services. The future establishment of a national training school is also planned.

NZERN is evolving into a national association for people and community groups with ecological restoraton projects. Owners of native plant nurseries, pest and weed control contractors and other interested people are also members. It is run democratically by its members, with active local branches , a National Council and annual National Conference. NZERN provides a help desk for its members. While most resources are shared via the internet, NZERN branches organise and participate in field days, workshops and distribute practical resources to assist local restoration projects. Membership enquiries are welcomed.

Offers of assistance from volunteers and all donations are gratefully accepted.

Updated 21/11/2007 6.31PM by PIPI4