Public submissions are now open for the Matuku Moana development in Pukehina.

The development aims to be the most sustainable and ecologically friendly nature reserve and eco village in the South Pacific.

Matuku Moana, if it gets the green light, will deliver 350 acres of natural wetlands and 139 energy-efficient eco homes to the region.

'The development will restore historic wetlands in Pukehina. In our proposal every home will be offset with one hectare of wetlands, which act as a natural filter and help clean run-off water from local farms,” says Matuku Moana project environmental and cultural manager Buddy Mikaere.

Wetlands also provide a natural habitat for native flora, fauna, and birds.

The Bay of Plenty region has lost an estimated 97 per cent of its fresh water wetlands, more than the national average of 90 per cent.

'This project is essentially about reinstating the land to its former glory, how nature intended it to be,” says Buddy.

'But we need public support to go ahead, we're calling for people to write in and show their enthusiasm for the ambitious goals we have set for delivering a world class sustainable development.

'Matuku Moana is a chance to prototype a sustainable model for housing developments; the Bay of Plenty will be able to hero this project as the gold standard for future developments in New Zealand and around the world.”

The 139-home eco village will incorporate the latest Green Technology.

Each home in Matuku Moana will be energy efficient - complete with solar energy, solar hot water, water tanks to recycle grey water and will use the world's most advanced sewerage recycling and disposal system.

Maori heritage and culture will be incorporated into the design elements of the development.

Not only are local Iwi being engaged from the outset but the concept of Kaitiakitanga (guardianship of the land) will be woven into the fabric of the development with local Iwi set to play a role in the Governance of the restored land which will be protected by a Trust.

The public are encouraged to have their say on this progressive development by making a submission at matukumoana.co.nz