Showing some love for Te Aka Raataa

Neighbours and project partners of Te Aka Raataa in Manukau showed their love for the outdoors, attending our Nature Day on Saturday 25 November 2023.

The family friendly day involved a walking tour to identify birds, insects and pest plants, helping the community understand what should be in the natural environment and what should not. Attendees’ observations of the birds and plant life were logged using the iNaturalist app and uploaded as a record of the current state of the natural environment.

The day was also an opportunity to introduce and discuss the concept design for our planned upgrade of the wetland and reserve with residents. Comments were noted by the project team, who handed out printed copies of the design for sharing with family and friends. Attendees were also treated to a free barbeque and a giveaway of complimentary passes to Auckland Zoo, to encourage more interaction with our treasured natural taonga.

Eke Panuku recently acquired land in the area as part of the wider Te Whakaoranga o te Puhinui regeneration programme, which is focused on restoring the ancestral stream of Te Puhinui.

Jennice Stringer, Eke Panuku project manager for the project to restore the wetland, said attendees were excited by the prospect of learning more about the natural environment: “The community are keen to see an increase in wildlife in the area. With more local events like this, we can provide better access for locals to understand and take care of our restored and protected natural spaces”.

People walking Te Araroa Trail also spontaneously joined in the event, sharing that they found the parts of the trail in forested areas the most enjoyable. This is great news as there is interest for Te Aka Raataa to become part of the trail.

The success of the Nature Day was due to the collaborative efforts of several organisations, who all contributed their expertise for the benefit of the event and the community. A heartfelt thanks to Auckland Council’s sustainability advisors and rangers, Auckland Botanic Gardens, Boffa Miskell, City Care, Done Project Planning and Delivery, Manukau Beautification Trust, Resilio, Uru Whakaaro and WSP.

Te Puhinui Empowered Communities Group plan to organise a similar event in late summer, with more information to be shared closer to the time.