2 June 2011

Community rally to restore Onoke Spit

The community has rallied to restore the natural character of South Wairarapa’s Onoke Spit, a breeding ground for the rare Caspian tern and home to rare grasses, katipo, lizards and other wildlife.

A coastal planting day on 27 May attracted 25 volunteers who helped the Department of Conservation plant 800 native species donated by Palliser Estate. Friends of Onoke Spit, students from Kahutara School and Wharekauhau staff all donated their time.

Onoke Spit is home to 19 species of native plants and it is important to continue planting as well as removing exotic species of plants which alter the natural landscape and compete for space with native species. Around 600 native plants were planted by the car-park at the western side of the spit, from where gorse has been cleared. A wetland and dunes were also planted.

“I would like to thank all the volunteers who helped with the planting, which will encourage more people to visit and walk onto the spit,” DOC biodiversity ranger Sandra Burles said.

Onoke Spit is part of the Wairarapa Moana Wetlands, the largest wetland complex in the southern North Island.

Find out more about the Wairarapa Moana Wetlands on the DOC website: http://www.doc.govt.nz/parks-and-recreation/places-to-visit/wairarapa/wairarapa/wairarapa-moana-wetlands-park/
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