The Avon-Heathcote Estuary Ihutai Trust is a charitable society registered in 2003. With representation from the community, Christchurch City Council, Environment Canterbury, and mana whenua, the Trust is active in the protection and enhancement of the estuary for recreational, ecological, educational, and landscape values.

The Avon-Heathcote Estuary Ihutai Trust is keen to monitor its two major restoration projects; Charlesworth and McCormacks Bay wetland reserves. Purpose; Have we, through planting brought back wildlife?