Hon Dr Nick Smith

Minister of Conservation

1 September 2014 Media Statement

$34,000 for restored wetland and new track of Paekakariki

The Government is to provide a $34,000 Community Conservation Partnership Fund grant over two years to support the work of the Whareroa Guardians to restore the Ramaroa Wetland and for a new track to the Ti Kouka Rocks, Conservation Minister Dr Nick Smith announced today at a community event in Paekakariki.

"The Whareroa Farm was officially opened in 2011 and this is about improving the conservation and recreational opportunities. The Whareroa Guardians are a wonderful volunteer force of over 200 people and an ideal partner for the Department of Conservation to restore the local wetland and create a new public track for people to enjoy," Dr Smith says.

"The wetland project is particularly important. New Zealand has lost over 90 per cent of its wetlands yet they are some of the most significant ecosystems for the protection of plants and animals. The funding will enable 6000 plants to be planted over the four to five hectares of the protected area.

"The Ti Kouka Rocks Track is a 1.6-kilometre track and the funding is to provide stiles, markers and signs on the Whareroa Farm Reserve to enable people to safely and easily access the landmark.

The Community Conservation Partnership Fund was announced in March this year and provides $26 million over the next four years to community organisations undertaking natural heritage and recreation projects. The Fund will support hundreds of projects on public and private land and is particularly focused on supporting efforts to protect biodiversity, natural habitats and native species.

"This successful bid by the Whareroa Guardians reflects these projects being great value for money for the taxpayer and the proven track record of success achieved to date on this farm park. It is a great example of how the community can work with the Department to enhance their local community."

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