The Manuka is one of the most common native trees in Aotearoa, New Zealand. Valued for its many healing medicinal properties, as well as its regenerative nature, the Manuka is an important ecological icon. Used generously in replanting and restoration projects, it acts as a shelter for vulnerable new plants to thrive and grow, as well as in riparian zones to help clean up polluted waterways.

​

Riparian planting is the practice of restoring the ecology of spaces alongside waterways such as rivers, through the planting of often native plant species. These plants help with preventing soil erosion through the strengthening of banks, and ensure waterways are kept clean by filtering pollutants through their root systems. Native plants are often used in restoration efforts as they protect fragile ecosystems from often harmful introduced species. The botanical reintroduction of these plants in remediation efforts, is a chance to restore the ecology of these sites to their original states before human interference.

​

This film is an exploration of the Manuka plant and its relationship to various forms of ecological restoration endeavours. It highlights Manuka’s role as an environmental protector and healer, as well as efforts being made to help with forest regeneration. In our current age of climate change and the anthropocene, restorative ecological efforts are needed now, more than ever.

​