Date of Award:

12-2025

Document Type:

Thesis

Degree Name:

Master of Landscape Architecture (MLA)

Department:

Landscape Architecture and Environmental Planning

Committee Chair(s)

Daniella Hirschfeld

Committee

Daniella Hirschfeld

Committee

Caroline Lavoie

Committee

Gustavo Ovando-Montejo

Abstract

Across New Zealand and around the world, biodiversity is declining due to the widespread loss and fragmentation of native habitat. This is especially true in agricultural landscapes, where native habitats have been replaced by intensive land use. This research focuses on the Upper Clutha Basin in Central Otago, New Zealand that has been significantly altered over time by farming, development, and other human activities. As a result, only a small amount of native vegetation remains, and the region is well below the critical threshold needed to support healthy ecological systems.

This study investigates how native vegetation can be strategically restored across the basin to rebuild ecological connectivity while remaining compatible with farming and other land uses. Using advanced mapping tools and detailed land cover data, several different restoration approaches were tested. These included replacing exotic vegetation with natives, planting along rivers and streams, adding to the edges of existing native patches, restoring steep slopes, and using public reserves for native planting. A combined approach that included multiple methods was also tested to see if greater gains could be achieved.

The results showed that all restoration approaches improved habitat extent and connectivity, but the combined scenario of watercourses, steep marginal land, and reserves was the most effective—raising native cover to over 15% and creating a much more connected landscape. Four priority areas were identified as key opportunities for restoration: the Lowburn terraces, Lindis Crossing, Tarras surrounds, and Hawea Flat. These areas currently have no existing native vegetation but offer high potential to reconnect fragmented habitats and restore ecological function at a broad scale.

This research demonstrates that with well-planned, strategic action, it is possible to restore native ecosystems within the productive agricultural landscape of the Upper Clutha Basin. By combining ecological insight with practical implementation, the study offers a realistic and effective roadmap for increasing biodiversity in the Upper Clutha Basin. The findings provide clear guidance for landowners, councils, and community groups, supporting a coordinated, long-term approach to restoration that balances environmental goals with local land use and cultural values.

Download

Share

COinS

Copyright for this work is retained by the student. If you have any questions regarding the inclusion of this work in the Digital Commons, please email us at .