Kete Aronui
Projects
Nestled along the picturesque Hatfields Beach, Otanerua Reserve is a story of transformation and dedication which is an inspiring reminder of what can be achieved when passionate individuals come together with a shared vision.
The reserve, with its boggy grassy area at the front, largely taken over by and enormous Sydney Golden wattle tree, and a significant ecological bush area plagued by invasive weeds, was in dire need of attention, all bounded by a stream that runs out to the beach. In 2018, a group of volunteers from Forest & Bird’s Pest Free Hibiscus Coast Project began predator control efforts, marking the start of conservation initiatives at the reserve.
Tori Christie, a passionate local, spearheaded these efforts. With the backing of Eco-neighbourhoods, she initiated several sustainability projects and collaborated with Forest & Bird’s Pest Free Hibiscus Coast Project to form a local neighbourhood trapping group. Her call for support to RHB led to the establishment of monthly community-led conservation activities in late 2021.
RHB supported eco-contractor control, in 2021 and again in 2022, of the climbing asparagus infestation which was rampant in the reserve – literally wall to wall! And, Auckland Council removed the enormous wattle in 2022.
Despite the progress, the reserve still faced a multitude of challenges with various invasive species like monkey apple trees, woolly nightshade, and jasmine, among others. Undeterred, the group made steady progress, significantly reducing the incidence of these weeds.– the work continues, especially to remove the weed seedlings that will continue to appear due to the considerable seed bank which has built up through years of heavy weed infestation. A couple of the group members have gained their Growsafe Certificate (via a free course provided by Auckland Council), which means they are able to to spray the asparagus seedlings and keep it under control.
There were still plenty of weeds to choose from with many monkey apple trees, wattles, woolly nightshade, Japanese spindle tree, jasmine, arundo and many more. The group has been making steady progress in tackling these weeds and their incidence is very much reduced – the work continues, especially to remove the weed seedlings that will continue to appear due to the considerable seed bank which has built up through years of heavy weed infestation. A couple of the group members have gained their Growsafe Certificate (via a free course provided by Auckland Council), which means they are able to to spray the asparagus seedlings and keep it under control.
The community’s dedication shone through in their planting efforts. In winter 2022, they began planting the boggy grassy area, continuing in 2023 and 2024. Volunteers have kept the planting site weeded and mulched and the planting site is growing well and will soon shade out most weeds. Additionally, five hundred riparian (streamside) native grasses were planted in the reserve in 2023 and again in 2024, providing important habitat and stream bank stabilisation.
Looking ahead, the Otanerua Reserve community group remains active and committed. Monthly working bees and sporadic weekday sessions keep the momentum going, and the group welcomes everyone to join in. There are also specific projects, like the large area of plectranthus, ideal for school groups, where the weed is carefully gathered and composted on-site. Plus, a unique challenge awaits a corporate group ready to tackle the Canna Lily Challenge – a call for teamwork and determination. Get in touch if you think your workplace is up to the challenge!
Through ongoing dedication and collaboration, this reserve is steadily being transformed into a flourishing natural haven, proving that with collective effort, even the most daunting environmental challenges can be overcome. Join the journey and be part of this inspiring transformation.Subscribe to our newsletter for updates or email us at manager@restorehb.org.nz with any questions.