A joint project that brings Auckland’s three most southern local boards together to work alongside Conservation Volunteers NZ and Healthy Waters to protect the Papakura Stream will be launched on 26 May.
Franklin, Papakura and Manurewa’s boards all have conservation outcomes as part of their local board plans, and with the stream running through all three areas and ultimately on to the Manukau Harbour, they are jointly funding a restoration project.
The Papakura Stream Restoration Project launch from 10am-2pm, 26 May, is timed for the worldwide Endangered Species Day and aims to see 1000 trees planted at the Brookby Wildlife Habitat.
Papakura board chair Brent Catchpole says the restoration project will involve many groups and organisations in a catchment-wide programme and protect an important waterway.
“The stream and its environs are home to a diverse range of species and the project’s aim is to restore and protect the stream and its water quality, as well as its banks, a vital habitat for native species.”
Manurewa chair Joseph Allan says the project will see fencing using recycled plastic fence posts, native tree and shrub planting, water quality monitoring, plant maintenance and community engagement.
“It’s an ambitious project because it involves restoration on both public and private land, working alongside farmers and other landowners. It’s going to need the support of the local and corporate community in the form of volunteering, sponsorship and partnerships.”
Franklin board chair Andy Baker says the launch event at Brookby Wildlife Habitat will see volunteers working with private landowners, Mark and Nicky Auld, to restore their wetland areas and protect mature kahikatea stands and the nearby Papakura Stream.
“This wetland area will be fenced with Future Posts made from recycled soft plastic, an initiative sponsored by Mondelēz New Zealand, which will help protect the stream and the restoration site from livestock.
“It’s fantastic to have private landowner and corporate support for the project because if we are serious about protecting this critical waterway, the project needs to encompass its entire length, and not just the parts where the stream runs through council land.”
The launch will get started on planting the 3500 native trees to be planted in the area this coming winter. This area is home to the threatened kākā, bats and longfin eel.
To book your spot or to find out more, contact Siobhan at sogrady@cvnz.org.nz
