The Government has set a goal to plant one billion trees by 2028. The One Billion Trees Programme will deliver improved social, environmental, and economic outcomes for New Zealand.

About the One Billion Trees Programme

Led by Te Uru Rākau (Forestry New Zealand) and funded by the Provincial Growth Fund, the Programme will:

1. create employment and workforce development

2. Optimize land use

3. mitigate climate change

4. support Māori values and aspirations

5. protect the environment

6. support New Zealand’s transition to a low emissions economy.

The Government has allocated $120 million through the One Billion Trees Fund for direct grants to landowners – particularly farmers – to include trees on their farms. The Fund does not support whole farm conversions and has a target of planting two-thirds natives.

Download our guide – The One Billion Trees Programme: Our future, our billion trees[PDF, 1.6 MB]

How will New Zealand meet the goal of planting 1 billion trees?

Their initial estimates consequently suggest at least 500 million trees will be delivered through current planting rates.

The Government’s role is as follows. So through Te Uru Rākau is supporting increased planting of both permanent trees and plantation forests. We’ll use a mix of exotic and native tree species. The plantings will create benefits for all New Zealanders.

We’re focused on making it easier to plant trees by:

1. lowering any planting barriers currently faced by landowners

We will also look at how we partner with New Zealanders to achieve this goal through research, innovation, and sector development initiatives.

One Billion Trees Fund

The One Billion Trees Fund supports individuals and groups across New Zealand to plant trees or manage land sustainably. Te Uru Rākau’s role is to work in partnership directly with landowners and organizations. All who want to achieve the goal of planting one billion trees by 2028.

Two types of grants

The $240 million fund in New Zealand dollars was launched on 30 November 2018. It will be distributed through 2 types of grants:

1. Direct landowner grants

2. Partnership grants

How this fund is different from other forestry funds

Landowners also have told us therefore that there are a number of barriers. Barriers limiting their approach to tree planting.

We aim to provide a flexible system to help plant the right tree, in the right place, for the right purpose. The fund has:

1. more targeted grant rates to encourage specific types of planting

2. criteria that will help advance best practice.

3. The fund is focused on partnering with organizations and groups. All thereby enabling an increase in tree planting. So whether through research, innovation, or sector development.

In conclusion, they are taking applications all year round. So finally, you can apply at any time.

Source: Government of New Zealand One Billion Trees Fund