Recloaking Te Mata Park: 64,000 native trees planted in five years

For decades the Trust has been restoring areas of the Park for biodiversity and the enjoyment of the public. 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.

The first stage of this revegetation project began in early 2020 with the removal of 12 hectares of pine trees to make way for planting which spanned five consecutive winters, extended out from the original three-year target due to Covid and Cyclone Gabrielle.

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. Planting was undertaken by professional contractors, volunteers, and local schools.

The 107.5 hectare tract of land that makes up Te Mata Park is a key biodiversity corridor connecting Cape Sanctuary to Mahia peninsula and beyond, meaning that native restoration in the Park will have a positive impact across the wider region.

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.”

The replanting programme has fostered a deeper connection between the Park and the local community, with hundreds of volunteers contributing their time via working bees and community planting days which have become an annual highlight. These events have not only helped with the practical mahi required but also engaged people of all ages in protecting and enhancing Te Mata Park for future generations.

“We are incredibly grateful for the ongoing support of the local community, our volunteers, and our funding partners who have helped us achieve this significant milestone,” added Devonshire.

In 2025, planting will continue at a slower pace as the Park team also focus on nurturing the newly planted trees to ensure they are given the best possible chance to thrive, as well as securing a sustainable funding stream to support the next iteration of the restoration programme.

For more information about Te Mata Park, go to www.tematapark.co.nz.

******************************

Image credit: The Surveying Company.

Media enquiries:
Sarah Austin-Smith, Manager, Te Mata Park Trust
sarah@tematapark.co.nz | o21 433 466