Mark it in your diary – Saturday 7 September 9:30 a.m. – a community planting morning on the banks of the well-known fishing river which runs just north of some of Martinborough’s heritage vineyards: the Hua-angarua.
This is a joint project between South Wairarapa Biodiversity Group (SWBG), well-known local farmer James Bruce, Greater Wellington Regional Council and committed community members.
The group has also connected with local Iwi to learn their perspective and gauge their support for the Hua-angarua mahi, support which they have generously provided.
“In doing so we have learnt that the grazing and cropping paddocks north of the planting area used to be the site of a Māori village,” said South Wairarapa Diversity Group committee member Owen Harvey.
Just two kilometres from Martinborough Square is the Ponatahi Bridge, and immediately on the right after the bridge, is a road – John’s Way – which the river runs alongside.
The cleared site is next to the quarry a few hundred metres up John’s Way.
“The Hua-angarua River is critical to our region. Over many years, the health of the river and the riverbanks have deteriorated,” Harvey noted.
“We want to make a start on restoring the health of this local ecosystem. Thanks to the support of James Bruce and Greater Wellington Regional Council, our start point is the section of the river running alongside John’s Way,”
What does the project involve?
“We are focusing on planting and maintaining selected native plants along the riverside, a riparian corridor, starting at the shingle quarry and working back towards the bridge,” he said.
“As we plant, we are giving people the opportunity to learn and experience how to do this in other areas of our region and on their own properties. Already a number of local groups have expressed interest in lending a hand.”
Why?
- The biodiversity group’s aim is to re-establish a thriving ecosystem that will:
- foster a wider range of plants, animals and organisms that should naturally occur in this area;
- improve water quality;
- contribute to a biodiversity corridor to encourage the reach of native birds.
How can you get involved?
Said Harvey: “If you have just 1 or 2 hours, come along on Saturday 7 September. Planting can be as long or short to fit around the time you have. We would love you to join in this local project whether you are an experienced planter or keen to get involved in planting natives.”
“Beyond the first planting day, you are most welcome to: help us maintain the plantings so they can thrive; tell others about the project; and spread the learnings from this project to other places.
Martinborough locals, weekenders, visitors – all are welcome.
Bring a spade and gardening gloves.”
As a reward – apart from the mahi itself – the group plans “a tasty barbecue” (thanks to Mitre 10) so please RSVP for catering purposes – Jane Lenting swbg@xtra.co.nz or https://www.facebook.com/SthWaiBio
