[+] 2009 Funding Round

Project 1
Department of Conservation (Rotorua) - Te Kopia Geothermal Aerial control of wilding pines

 Te Kopia scenic reserve is in the Paeroa Range and is significant for its geothermal wetland, botanical and cultural values. The steep crumbing terrain is treacherous and geothermal features make the control of invasive weeds difficult as control on foot is impossible.

The reserve has been invaded by Wilding Pines and in 2006 WEMCT funded the control of wilding pines along the south western edge of the field. This was done on foot and was extremely successful.

 In June this year DOC undertook a helicopter sling operation but because of the terrain only half the job was completed. It was initially thought 200 pines were to be removed but by the end of the operation 1000 had been treated. 

This project involves a single operation for aerial human sling work to remove wilding pine from the area not yet covered.

Project 2
Wairpahihi Marae Trust (Taupo)  - Ngai Wai o Onekeneke (Onekeneke Enhancement Project)

This is a two stage project to restore the mana and mauri of the Onekeneke Stream through developing and implementing an ecological restoration plan.

Stage 1 involves commissioning an ecological assessment and restoration plan for Onekeneke Stream including baseline studies (Wildland Consultants).

Onekeneke Stream is highly regarded for its geothermal characteristics and also as a Taonga tuku iho to the hapu of Ngati Tuwharetoa.

The project is long term, and aims to capture a comprehensive and holistic record of the health of the geothermal resource integrating cultural information with traditional scientific information.

Project 3
Ngati Tahu Tribal Trust (Ohaaki) - Waikato River Reserve enhancement
 

This project is top enhance a newly created reserve on the banks of the Waikato River at the corner of Ohaaki Rd and Te Toki Rd.

This area was previously used as a dump site and now all waste has been removed and the area is now clear and ready for enhancement.  The area is in full view from adjoining roads which may discourage future abuse.

The reserve has river access and boat launch that the community is being encouraged to utilise.

Ngati Tahu as the mana whenua and kaitiaki of the rohe support this project. The project involves forming a gravel roadway to the boat launch, removing wind blown pines and stumps, pruning, spraying, removal of steel pipes, scrub cutting, native tree planting & shade tree planting and grassing of cultivated areas.