A strong commitment to sustainability and community wellbeing has been underlined by Waitākere Ranges Local Board with an investment of almost $400,000.
The $389,990 investment through the board’s local environmental management work programme supports a wide range of community-led environmental projects.
These are aimed at protecting the natural beauty and biodiversity of the Waitākere Ranges, while encouraging sustainable lifestyles.
Local Board chair Greg Presland says the additional funding has allowed the board to deepen its commitment to both people and place.
“Thanks to Auckland Council’s new Fairer Funding model, we have more budget available for more projects this year,” says Presland.
“We are pleased to support community cycling initiatives for the first time. These new initiatives have been allocated $35,000, including a community-led e-bike library trial, kids’ learn-to-ride events, adult bike skills workshops, and guided rides.”
“Another new initiative is the phosphite treatment for kauri trees affected by dieback disease at Titirangi War Memorial Park. We’ve allocated $6,600 towards this project and hope it will help prolong the life of infected kauri.”
The Pest Free Waitākere Ranges Alliance Coordinator role received $95,000 in funding to continue supporting and connecting local ecological restoration efforts.
The ongoing Weed Action Project (Our Backyard) received $52,500. Funded by the board since 2014, this initiative focuses on controlling invasive weeds on privately owned properties in areas such as Huia, Anawhata, Karekare, Piha and Cornwallis.
Programmes delivered by EcoMatters Environment Trust were allocated $96,955, which includes support for EcoFest, community nurseries, and the Love Your Place environmental champion awards that celebrate local action within the Waitākere Ranges Local Board area.
The South Titirangi Restoration Project, which assists the South Titirangi Neighbourhood Network (Now renamed Titirangi Urban Sanctuary) in managing pest plants on private properties, received $15,000.
As a member of the Manukau Harbour Forum, the board has contributed $10,435 to the forum’s regional co-funding.
“This year, the forum will focus on strengthening engagement with community and mana whenua partners. As a member board, we’re proud to make our contribution to support this work,” Presland says.
Other initiatives in the programme include:
- $40,000 for a Climate Action Activator to support and enable community climate action.
- $3,500 for kerbside recycling collections at community-use buildings in Piha.
- $35,000 for additional animal management support on west coast beaches to improve dog bylaw compliance and protect native wildlife.
“The Waitākere Ranges, te wao nui o Tiriwa, is a taonga with rich biodiversity and a strong community spirit. This investment helps us protect our natural environment while empowering locals to be part of the solution,” says Presland.
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