Spring News – November 2022

The Park is a hive of activity this spring, with lush new growth appearing and the tūī song and kererū wing beat making a wonderful soundtrack for our visitors. The spring rain has certainly brought some challenges, with muddy tracks and more than a few slips appearing in the Park. For the new native rakau however, conditions could not have been better.

In our spring newsletter, we:

• Welcome new members to our Board and Committees
• Share an opportunity to join our team
• Reflect on our planting progress
• Note some upcoming events
• And more…

We look forward to a busy summer and festive season ahead, and the launch of our Ngā Tipuna strategy later this month, but for now we hope you enjoy this beautiful time of year in the Park. 
 
Ngā mihi nui,

The Te Mata Park Trust Board

New Trustees and Committee Members 

The last quarter saw the departure of two stalwarts of the Te Mata Park Trust Board – Ian Gold and Council representative Bayden Barber. Both gave immense amounts of time, energy and expertise to the Board and the Trust is grateful for their service.

The Trustees are delighted to welcome Jon Lewin to the board. Jon is a commercial lawyer with 25 years’ experience in both private practice and corporate roles. A new Councillor Trustee (to replace Bayden) will be appointed in the near future.  The Board also welcomes Shannon Bray as our new Aspiring Trustee; and new committee members Steve White, Sarah Newell and Chris Wilcock who have volunteered their time and specialist expertise to the Trust.

Opportunity to join our Management Team 

After more than five years in the role our dedicated Manager Emma Buttle is moving on, and applications are now open for the position of Manager, Te Mata Park Trust.

A key member of a dedicated team, this part-time position is instrumental in the delivery of the Park Trust’s objectives. The role involves a wide range of duties with a focus on operational and project management, governance, and administrative tasks.

We are looking for someone who can oversee a wide range of projects; manage budgets, staff and contractors; ensure the effective and safe operations of the Park; communicate well with a wide range of stakeholders; and is committed to the protection and enhancement of Te Mata Park.

Go to our website for a full position description, and details of how to apply.

Our rakau are flourishing

Our native restoration programme is now three planting seasons in, and it is heartening to see the growth in that time. Comparing the plantings from several years ago to those planted this winter, we can see some amazing growth and get a glimpse of what the Park will look like in years to come.

We are delighted to have planted 12,760 native rakau this season, and thank all our volunteers who helped make this happen.

News from Peak House 

A new menu and longer hours, including Friday evenings, look set to make Peak House the perfect spot to relax with friends and enjoy the best view in Hawke’s Bay this summer. The eatery will also be hosting a regular line up of comedy, quiz and music events.

Follow Peak House on Facebook or go the their website to stay up do date with what’s on offer.

New speed cushions installed to improve safety

Regular Park goers will have seen that Hastings District Council installed speed cushions on Te Mata Peak Rd from above Peak House to just before the summit. This action was taken following public concern about crashes and near-miss incidents on this increasingly busy road over a number of years.

The Trust welcomes the addition of the speed cushions as an important public health and safety measure. .

Upcoming events and reminders

Make a note in your diary for:

• 20 November 2022: Peak Trail Blazer – offers something for everyone with a 3.5km Tainui Trail, and a 12.8km Peak Trail with walking and running options.
• 26 November 2022: the Te Mata Peak Youth Downhillevent for riders under 19. Go to their website to find out more.
• 25 February 2023: MCL Construction Triple Peaks – a fundraiser for the Park!
• Late November – sheep will be returning to the Park to graze.