The Horizons Region now has only 23 per cent of its original forest cover. Much of the remaining indigenous biodiversity is in poor condition and under pressure from pests and disturbance.
We aim to restore significant habitats with research and monitoring, pest plant and pest animal control, funding assistance, and specific work programmes for bush remnant enhancement.
The majority of the forest is found in the hill country and the ranges, with fragments scattered throughout the lower-lying and coastal areas of the region, where typically less than 10 per cent of original habitat remains.
The Kia Wharite project, established in 2008, aims to restore this balance across 180,000 ha of DOC-managed (public) and private land including parts of the Whanganui National Park, the second largest lowland forest in the North Island. This remote area is home to the largest population of North Island brown kiwi as well as many other native plant and animal species.
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Te Āpiti - Manawatū Gorge is a magnificent geographical structure formed over thousands of years by the Manawatū River.
Te Āpiti - Manawatū Gorge project is focussed on four key pillars, biodiversity, recreation, education, and culture. With the aim to restore native forest and fauna, maintain and enhance the biodiversity within this natural beauty, this project is proudly supported by:
The Kahuterawa Bush Reserve is now part of ‘The Lower Kahuterawa Stream Biodiversity Restoration Project 2012 – 2023’ which is a collaboration between Horizons Regional Council, New Zealand Defence Force, Massey University, Keeble’s Bush Trust, and Iwi. The walking tracks throughout the bush remnant were constructed so that we may all enjoy the natural splendour that the reserve has to offer. The reserve is also an excellent outdoor classroom for schools studying our environment, with its wide variety of New Zealand’s special flora and fauna. For many years, volunteers, school groups, and individuals, along with the New Zealand Defence Force, the Department of Conservation, and Horizons, have carried out extensive weed control and planting programmes to protect and enhance its biodiversity. This reserve owes its life to the tireless efforts and vision of Jock McKenzie, along with Ken Rush and the Kahuterawa Bush Reserve Community Care Group who have managed to restore this site to a wonderful example of native forest.