Free Tree Canopy Project

Did you know that there is less than 14% tree canopy cover in Ōtautahi?

We have increased tree canopy coverage in Ōtautahi by donating 1000 trees to households in the Murchison Park area in 2023 and Englefield Reserve in 2024. We partnered with Trees for Canterbury, Christchurch City Council, and the University of Canterbury School of Forestry to better understand community forest restoration. 

How did it work?

The Styx Living Laboratory Trust did a surprise delivery of 1040 trees to the Park areas. Each tree will came with a brochure, weed mat, and a gift certificate for an additional free tree thanks to our project partner Trees for Canterbury.

That's 2000 free trees for the each neighbourhood!

If everyone planted their trees in the area then it could increase tree canopy coverage in the neighbourhood from 11.87 % to almost 16% long term. This will help sequester carbon, create forest patches and support local bush birds.