Our Purpose.
The Willowbank Foundation is a charitable trust created to STRENGTHEN conservation initiatives protecting wildlife and restoring natural habitats across our region.
Working alongside conservation partners, community organisations and donors, the Foundation helps CONNECT funding with projects that deliver meaningful
outcomes for nature.
50 Years of IMPACT.
The Willowbank Foundation builds on a conservation legacy that began more than 50 years ago when Michael Willis and Kathy Rangiwananga established Willowbank Wildlife Reserve, creating a place where people could connect with Aotearoa’s unique wildlife.
Guided by a simple belief — that when people connect with wildlife, they care enough to protect it — the Willis family has spent decades championing wildlife care, conservation advocacy and environmental education.
This long-standing commitment to stewardship has helped make Willowbank one of Canterbury’s most trusted conservation institutions.
In recognition of this contribution to conservation and community, Michael Willis was appointed a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit (MNZM) in 2015.
Today, The Willowbank Foundation carries this legacy forward — supporting and activating conservation initiatives that create lasting impact for nature.
“We’ve come this far thanks to our community. Now it’s time to give back — taking conservation beyond the gates so together, we can make an even greater impact.”
Our PEOPLE.
“Willowbank was built on passion, purpose and an unwavering belief in conservation. The Willowbank Foundation carries this commitment into the future.”
The NEXT Chapter.
As environmental pressures grow across Canterbury, The Willowbank Foundation expands the Willis family’s vision — connecting community generosity with projects that protect wildlife and restore natural habitats.
What began as a family vision is now becoming a social movement.
With strong foundations and a trusted legacy, The Willowbank Foundation is helping shape the future of conservation across Canterbury.
Together, we can honour the past and build a stronger future for wildlife, wild places and generations to come.
“The Willowbank Foundation is about more than conservation — it's about connection, inspiring a social movement for nature. Because conservation thrives when communities are connected to it.”
