Precious wetlands in Kaikōura that have been drained and degraded for generations, are now being lovingly restored and protected in projects that landowners and farmers hope will inspire others to do the same.
Those behind the restoration work say changing attitudes among farmers is helping create more awareness about protecting natural habitat in farms.
The Canterbury Regional Council, which is supporting the work, says although it will take decades for the wetlands to fully recover, there are already promising signs.
Our reporter Anan Zaki and cameraman Nate McKinnon went to Kaikōura to find out more.