February’s storms in Canterbury hit the Banks Peninsula region particularly hard, causing more than $500,000 worth of damage to popular walking and biking tracks.

In response, Kura Tāwhiti Canterbury Community Foundation and the Rod Donald Trust launched the February 2026 Storm Damage Repair Fund. 

The group hopes to raise $200,000 by June 30 to assist organisations leading repair and restoration efforts. Without additional funding, track reopening and ongoing recovery could be significantly delayed.

“Providing a donation is a great way for the public to help community groups to continue providing these low-cost recreation opportunities on the peninsula,” Rod Donald Trust manager Shelley Washington said.

The fund will be allocated to track repair, reinstating damaged trapping networks, weed control and strengthening the resilience of conservation efforts in the area.

The Rod Donald Trust will distribute donations to local conservation organisations, including Te Ahu Pātiki Charitable Trust, Orton Bradley Park, Living Springs, Summit Road Society and Mikimiki Conservation Trust, as part of a whole community effort.