Some serious planning has been underway at Te Mata Park over the last five years … to the tune of 64,000 native trees.
In 2020 the Trust signed an agreement with Te Uru Rākau to plant 60,000 native trees across 12 hectares, revegetating and restoring the maunga, extending the bird corridor, and enhancing and highlighting the rongoā planting in the Park.
Over 25 varieties have been planted, including tōtara, karamū, māhoe, wineberry, kahikatea, kānuka, harakeke, kōwhai, tī kōuka, ake ake and more. All plants have been eco-sourced from local nurseries and selected based on their suitability to the climate and terrain.
Here’s the difference being made. Before …
After …
Planting was undertaken by professional contractors, volunteers, and local schools. Hundreds of volunteers have contributed their time via working bees and community planting days which have become an annual highlight.
Mike Devonshire, Chair of Te Mata Park Trust, said “The native restoration of Te Mata Park is central to the Trust’s vision to protect and enhance this taonga for future generations. After only five years we can see this vision coming to life with pockets of new native bush already thriving and it is humbling to think what the Park will be like in 20, 50, or 100 years.”
Images courtesy of The Surveying Company
For more information about Te Mata Park, go to www.tematapark.co.nz.
Fantastic work – well done to all concerned – maybe we’ll see a big growth in our native birds in the area thanks to this – kiwis on the front lawn? Presumably predator trapping/control is part of the operation as well – especially cats and possums which can decimate wild life.