To ensure the long term protection of your native bush or wetland, consider a conservation covenant that protects the feature in perpetuity.
The QEII National Trust, Department of Conservation, or councils can enable covenants for permanent protection if the feature meets appropriate criteria. These organisations can provide great advice and resources on how to go about legally protecting the feature, leaving a legacy for future generations. Owners of Māori land can place areas under a Ngā Whenua Rāhui kawenata/covenant. Although this may be for protection in perpetuity, the terms and conditions can be reviewed every generation.
There are also sources of financial assistance worth investigating that can support fencing, survey and legal costs. Some councils also provide a portion of rates relief for covenanted areas.