Please note that the 1300 sheep that have recently been grazing in Te Mata Park, were all removed this morning by the local farmer who owns them.
Whilst many people enjoy having sheep in the Park, we are aware that the sheep have caused some damage to trails. This is also due to the current wet weather conditions. Consequently, the steep zig zags on the red Giant Circuit are currently very muddy, churned up and challenging to walk. Please avoid if possible, until the weather clears.
It has always been park policy to graze sheep within the park. The objective has been to achieve some measure of control of noxious weeds and to keep the grass down along the tracks.
The grazing policy is due to be reviewed at the next Board meeting. The objective has always been to balance the Park’s grazing policy with a good outcome for the Park.
Thank you for your understanding. And thank you to the farmer for braving the cold, wet conditions this morning to remove all 1300 sheep!
