Project Whakahaumanu
Working together to restore and protect the whenua of Te Wehikura and Te Kaingahu for the wellbeing of the Ngāti Hinerangi-Ngāti Hinekiri people, the environment and our culture. A project that will enable mana whenua to manage a range of recreational opportunities that provide contact with New Zealand’s natural and historic heritage.
Project Whakahaumanu, meaning Revive and Restore to Health, is a partnership initiative between Kaitiaki Adventures and the local Ngāti Pikiao hapū Ngāti Hinerangi-Ngāti Hinekiri. Action on the project commenced in April 2020 with clearing of retired land which consisted of blackberry, gorse, weed, and other invasive plant species. This is a hugely ambitious 17Ha restoration project.
The tree planting is an incremental part of the wider Whakahaumanu Project.
All Blacks Richie McCaw, planting a Tree with the Local Kura – Whangamarino
The aim of the project is to:
- Protect natural features that existed pre 1954,
- Protect all natural features, identify and protect wāhi tapu from damage and desecration,
- Develop all natural resources for cultural and educational purposes, and provide an economic base for the hapū,
- Run commercial ventures on restored land, providing legacy and financial sustainability for landowners and generations to come.
With a target of planting 22,000 Natives so far, there have been multiple volunteer groups; many of which from the local area, assisting with the planting of Native Trees.
‘It’s hard mahi but we will get it done!!’
Community planting days hosted by Kaitiaki Adventures are open to anyone who would like to volunteer. Kaitiaki Adventures uses the ‘Trees that Count’ website to set targets and track the number of trees planted, enabling those who are unable to attend community planting days the opportunity to ‘purchase a tree’ to be planted on their behalf.
Project Manager John Treanor planting with one of our amazing little volunteers.
For more about Project Whakahaumanu, check out the video below:
