From Farmland to Wildlife Haven: Major Restoration Project at Triangle Flat
A 200-hectare block at the base of Onetahua/Farewell Spit, previously used for sheep grazing, is set to become a biodiversity hotspot, thanks to a new restoration project led by HealthPost Nature Trust in partnership with DOC, Manawhenua ki Mohua, and Pest Free Onetahua.
Photo: Andy MacDonald
The transition builds on the Trust’s success in establishing a burrowing seabird colony to Cape Farewell. A key step in the project will be the construction of a 3km predator-proof fence to protect native species from possums, stoats, pigs, and hares.
“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.
DOC’s Ross Trotter, Operations Manager for Golden Bay, says the initiative is a natural progression of an already successful partnership with HealthPost Nature Trust and Manawhenua ki Mohua.
“Having a DOC ranger on-site after the grazing license expired wasn’t in our budget, but HealthPost stepped in to co-fund a position that also supports greater biodiversity gains for the area. Farewell Spit and the surrounding area is a unique and internationally significant ecosystem, and this new partnership will enhance conservation outcomes and visitor experience.”
– Ross Troter
Expanding Safe Habitat for Endangered Wildlife
This new restoration project will work closely with Pest Free Onetahua, a large-scale predator control project removing possums and hares and controlling rats, and stoats from Onetahua/Farewell Spit. Led by Tasman Environmental Trust, the project has successfully eliminated feral pigs from Farewell Spit, and intensive trapping is now underway.
If the joint predator control efforts succeed, the entire 2,000-hectare, 50km-long coastline could one day provide a safe haven for endangered species. DOC’s Senior Seabird Advisor, Graeme Taylor, has highlighted the site’s potential for threatened species of shorebirds, seabirds, and forest birds.
“There’s even potential for burrowing seabirds to return to the stable dunes near the lighthouse,” says Taylor.
Next Steps
“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.
Open Day
An open day to share this exciting development is being held at the Trust’s whare on Triangle Flat on Saturday, March 22 from 1pm-3pm.
Read DOC's announcement about this exciting development here:
For more information or to support the project, visit our website or call Peter Butler
027 545 6055
