News release
9 May 2005

East Harbour Regional Park management plan review - have your say

Public consultation begins this month in the first stage of the East Harbour Regional Park management plan review. The current plan was written in 1995.

Chair of Greater Wellington's Landcare Committee Councillor Chris Laidlaw says that, "The hills between Eastbourne and Wainuiomata have been popular for walking and picnicking for generations. Many people remember being taken there as children and now take their children or even grandchildren to the park. This is an important opportunity for the community to have its say in how it should be managed now and in the future for the next generations."

"We invite and welcome suggestions, ideas and comments from the public to ensure we understand the communities' needs, identify potential issues and to provide the best possible management framework for the park."

East Harbour Regional Park East Harbour Regional Park is a contrast of native forest and windswept coastline, providing a magnificent backdrop to Wellington Harbour. Greater Wellington manages the park which includes land owned by Hutt City Council and the Crown.

There are two distinct areas. To the north, the hills between Eastbourne and Wainuiomata contain some of the best beech/rata forest in the Wellington area. In contrast, the damp valley floors contain lush semi-swamp forest including kahikatea, pukatea and nikau palms.

To the south, the Pencarrow Coast provides sweeping views across the harbour and to the Kaikouras. At the end of the Coast Road, the nationally significant freshwater wetlands of Kohangatera and Kohangapiripiri managed by the Department of Conservation are home to a wealth of native plants and wildlife. Cr Laidlaw said that a draft plan will be prepared for public comment, once the Landcare Committee has considered all submissions, and talked with interested parties, local iwi and relevant agencies.

Public submissions close on Thursday 30 June, 2005.

Further information and images are available online at www.gw.govt.nz

ENDS

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