Photo credit: Craig Potton, HealthPost Nature Trust Trustee
The HealthPost Nature Trust is one big step closer to its vision of thriving biodiversity at Onetahua Farewell Spit, with a new partnership project launched this month to regenerate a further 200 hectares at the northwestern tip of New Zealand’s South Island.
This new project builds on the HealthPost Nature Trust’s previous success in creating the Wharariki Ecosanctuary and reintroducing pakahā (fluttering shearwaters), while protecting remnant seabird colonies and other threatened species in the area. Backed by solid partnerships and a dedicated community of local volunteers, the Trust will lead this ambitious transition from farmland to wildlife sanctuary at the base of Onetahua, an area of great cultural and ecological significance.
When the long-held grazing licence for the area expired last year, the HealthPost Nature Trust put forward a proposal with a strong vision of environmental regeneration for the area, while ensuring that this iconic place remains accessible for its many local and international visitors. Supported by Manawhenua ki Mohua, this proposal won out over 7 others. The HealthPost Nature Trust will be working closely with the Department of Conservation, Manawhenua ki Mohua and Pest Free Onetahua to create a thriving biodiversity hotspot, and this new undertaking speaks to the success of these partnerships to date.
A key stage in the project will be the construction of a 3km predator-proof fence to protect native species from possums, stoats, pigs, and hares and, ultimately, allow for more ambitious reintroductions.
“If we can defend the base of Farewell Spit, and with our partners tackle the predators, it’s going to become much more than just a great feeding ground for migratory birds. Apart from gannets on a sandspit at the very tip, it’s not a safe place for any native species to raise their young. Together we’re going to change that.” - HealthPost Nature Trust Chair Peter Butler.
The HealthPost Nature Trust is also co-funding a ranger onsite to support biodiversity gains for the area and to help facilitate engagement with the conservation values of this incredible landscape, which is also a highly valued recreation area.
Onetahua Farewell Spit is an internationally significant ecosystem, with more than 90 bird species, including a Ramsar site for wading birds, and various rare plants, insects and invertebrates.. If the joint predator control efforts succeed, the entire 50km-long coastline could one day provide a safe haven for endangered species, and the site has strong potential for the reintroduction of threatened species of shorebirds, seabirds, and forest birds.
“Funding efforts for a predator-proof fence are underway, and planning for the long-term restoration of the site is progressing. With strong collaboration and community support, the vision of a thriving, predator-free Onetahua is closer than ever.” Peter Butler says.
The exciting new partnership project is set to enhance both the conservation outcomes and the visitor experience of this very special part of Aotearoa. We’ll keep you updated!
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