Back in 2015, with New Zealand’s biodiversity in steep decline and forests falling silent, a small group of passionate conservationists decided to act. From that vision, the Canopy Conservation Trust was born, a promise to bring life back to the ancient native forest of Okoheriki, Rotorua.Our journey began in the Dansey Road Scenic Reserve (Okoheriki), Rotorua. Once a lush and thriving ecosystem, the reserve had been ravaged by introduced predators and pests. The dream was bold: to return this forest to its pre-human state, alive with birdsong, thriving plants, and rich biodiversity.From the start, we’ve worked side by side with Rotorua Canopy Tours, a leading ecotourism business that shares our vision. Their team contributes expertise, funding, and hands-on labour, turning adventure tourism into a powerful force for conservation. Together, alongside Mana Whenua and the Department of Conservation (DOC), we’ve created a model where tourism doesn’t just support nature, it restores it. And the results speak for themselves. Where once the forest was eerily quiet, today it sings. Ruru, Kererū, Pīwakawaka, Tūī, Grey Warblers, Whiteheads, Korimako, and Silvereyes now fill the canopy with their calls. In certain seasons, Koekoeā and Kākā sweep through, and in a moment that fills us with hope, a few friendly Toutouwai and Miromiro are confident enough to feed from our hands during tours. Life has returned to the ancient forest floor, too. Native ferns once again blanket the ground, while flowers, fruits, and fresh shoots push through in every season. We’ve found critically threatened species, uncovered rare fungi and invertebrates, and even discovered new species the world has never seen before. This is just the beginning. With the support of people like you, we believe Dansey Road Scenic Reserve can be home to a national sanctuary; a future where our native forests are thriving, our native species are safe, and the land is once again alive with the sights and sounds of a truly wild Aotearoa. Together, we can make it happen.
Objectives
At the heart of Canopy Conservation Trust, a commitment to conservation, education, and community. Grounded in science, and driven by passion, the Trust strives to:
1) Restore the natural balance of the Okoheriki and create a sanctuary for native flora and fauna.
2) Educate the public about the importance of biodiversity conservation and inspire action.
3) Develop partnerships and collaborations to maximise our impact and reach.
How to Help
- Join us, in our mission to safeguard New Zealand’s natural heritage for generations to come. Whether through donations, volunteering, corporate sponsorship, or spreading awareness, every contribution makes a difference. Together, every action we make, is a step towards a brighter, healthier future. Interested in joining us, please contact us below.