Wastewater rules are in place to prevent human waste entering the water table, risking public health and environmental degradation.
Project lead ranger Gerald Mullen says visitors who book in for self-contained sites must use their own facilities, and not take advantage of those on site.
“We want to keep the camp open for summer despite the wastewater challenges facing the town, and this is how we can do it,” says Gerald. “We’ll be out there keeping an eye on compliance, and potentially removing campers who are disobeying the rules.”
Bookings at Matatā Campsite are up nearly 25% from last year, indicating people continue to enjoy a summer camping trip in the Bay of Plenty.
Gerald says the team are getting ready to welcome visitors to what is expected to be a busy summer for the idyllic spot.
“Due to the strain on facilities, if visitors fail to comply we will likely have to close a large portion of the camp to remain within wastewater regulations.
“We really are relying on the honesty of campers so all can enjoy the upcoming season.”
Fire and Emergency New Zealand initially responded to the fire on 21 October with support from the Department of Conservation (DOC) and mana whenua.
With the fire under control, management was handed to DOC to continue mop-up and start monitoring for hotspots from Saturday 26 October.
Over Labour Weekend, DOC aerial and ground crews inspected along the fire perimeter using thermal drones. Today DOC confirms there are no further hotspots and will move to a scaled-down monitoring approach.
The burnt area contains the largest and most intact raised peatland habitat in Whangamarino. This globally rare habitat is one of the few remaining raised peatlands in the southern hemisphere – and the peat soil plays an important role in storing carbon. The fire released an estimated 96,000-181,800 tonnes of greenhouse gasses back into the atmosphere.
The unique habitat supports a high diversity of threatened native wetland species, including black mudfish/waikaka, Australasian bittern/matuku-hūrepo, and spotless crake/pūweto. It also hosts many threatened plant species and is the only known location of the critically endangered swamp helmet orchid.
DOC’s Regional Director Tinaka Mearns says DOC worked closely with Fire and Emergency, Ngā Muka linking to Ngāti Naho, Ngāti Tamaoho, Ngāti Pāoa, Ngāti Māhuta and other groups to ensure ecologically and culturally sensitive areas threatened by the fire were prioritised for protection.
“Individual animals will have perished in this fire, and there has been an enormous loss of habitat.
“However, we protected around 148 hectares of peatland, thanks to the quick response and co-ordinated effort of everyone involved. This area will be critical to the vegetation recovery as it provides a seed source.
“We wish to extend our huge gratitude to everyone who helped with this collaborative effort to control the fire. After taking a breath, we will move towards creating a recovery plan with the same collaborative approach. It will likely take decades to achieve the work.”
Ngā Muka Trust acknowledge the expertise and professionalism of the fire team throughout the Whangamarino Fire.
Ngā Muka Trust’s Kelvin Tupuhi says, “the kaitiaki implementation was well received and deemed important across all sectors. We take the positive from this, and look forward to a reset of our taonga. Mana whenua will continue to advocate matauranga Māori throughout the recovery process. Nga mihi kia koutou katoa.”
Tinaka Mearns says the fire serves as a reminder of the importance of wetlands to species and to people.
“Wetlands can be a source of carbon emissions when degraded – for example by draining peatlands – but are effective in storing carbon and removing CO2 if maintained or restored.
“Bringing water back into wetlands, restoring them and controlling any fires in their vicinity will reduce their risk to future fire damage. This protects unique plants and animals, plus keeps carbon out of the atmosphere.”
DOC Incident controller Steve Bolton says, “the whakatauki gifted to the response by Kelvin Tupuhi – ‘Ehara He Toa Takitahi, Engari He Toa Takitini’ – recognises that the outcome could not be achieved by one alone but by the many”.
“This includes the fire fighters, their families, employers and the community surrounding the wetland.”
Named Tāne Mahuta, the pou was initially carved in the 1990s by the late Rua Cribb to sit at one of the main entrances to the Whanganui River Road. The design connects mana whenua and symbolizes strength and the resilience of the forest and the awa.
Over the years since installation, the elements took their toll on the structure necessitating skilled refurbishment.
Restoration took place at a dedicated carving facility at Te Ao Hou marae, where the next generation of carvers are reviving the art in Whanganui. Appropriately, some of the restoration carvers trained under the tutelage of Rua.
Marae custodian Geoff Hipango says the pou represents what Whanganui iwi hold dear, in terms of the river.
“For anyone visiting it brings visibility, awareness, that our arts and our people are present.
“For us it’s not just about the pou, it’s also the knowledge that our arts are alive and well in 2024.”
With dedicated work over several months the pou was repaired and re-painted.
Representatives of Whanganui River iwi and Department of Conservation staff oversaw the delicate process of reinstating the pou, commemorating the success with karakia and a small ceremony on October 11.
The pou is situated alongside interpretation panels designed to educate locals and visitors to the Whanganui River.
DOC senior ranger heritage and visitors Jim Campbell says the team are thrilled to see the pou back in place celebrating Te Awa Tupua.
“It’s a fitting introduction to the wild landscapes and history of the Whanganui National Park.”
Visitors to the Whanganui River can view the pou Tāne Mahuta at the turnoff to the Whanganui River Road from State Highway 4.
Date: 25 October 2024Source: Office of the Minister of Conservation
“The 60km upgraded track provides the opportunity to do one of New Zealand’s world-class multi-day walks, and will bring conservation, recreation, and economic benefits to the region,” Mr Potaka says.
“Located in Te Wāhipounamu, in the south-west corner of the South Island, the trail weaves through diverse landscapes, including, beaches and seascapes, native forest, and an alpine section. It also provides opportunities to spot Hector dolphins and see the southern lights – the Aurora Australis.”
Mr Potaka says that the Hump Ridge Track is steeped in cultural and historical significance, and that its Great Walk status will make it more of a drawcard for both New Zealanders and international visitors.
“The area has rich stories, and new installations on the trail will tell them. This includes the stories of tangata whenua and the forestry heritage, as well as the viaducts and Port Craig.
“A new Waharoa, a gateway, now stands at the entrance to the new track entrance, welcoming visitors.
“This will be an exciting moment for everyone who has invested time and energy into this project, along with those who will benefit from the increase it brings to local businesses and the economy.”
The upgrades are expected to bring a 10 percent growth in numbers in the next years and return Great Walk visitor numbers nearer to pre-pandemic levels. As well as bringing employment opportunities and revenue to local communities, accommodation providers can also expect an increase in bed nights.
The track has received $7.9 million in funding for multiple improvements, including future-proofing sections of the track against climate change and natural hazards, and developing alternative routes
Inclines have been eased and new boardwalks have also been installed, as well as new swing bridge.
“I am very pleased to know that the track will now offer visitors a view into the area, telling the stories of tangata whenua and the area’s biodiversity,” Mr Potaka says.
The call comes amid reports of people illegally digging and moving material at the historic site.
Senior Heritage Advisor Tom Barker says that people travel to Denniston to learn about the history there, and the historic artifacts and relics are all part of the experience. For many decades, Denniston was the largest producing coal mining area in New Zealand, staffed by pioneering people who braved the hilltop and windswept location.
“The mining history of Denniston is among the premier attractions in our district. It’s an incredible piece of West Coast history that we should be proud to share and must preserve for all visitors to observe and learn about.
“Denniston is a legally protected Category 1 Historic Place under the Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga Act 2014. Anyone found taking or disturbing material there risks a fine of up to $300,000.
“Around 20,000 people visit Denniston each year to marvel at the breathtaking brakehead, ponder on the harsh reality for the inhabitants of the once bustling coal mining township, and take in spectacular coastal views”
Tom says in the past it was common for local people to remove building material from Denniston and other abandoned sites in the district.
“A lot of those materials and whole houses were moved to Westport and other Buller settlements off the hill. However, we are in a different time now. Taking items from Denniston is stealing from our West Coast heritage and tourism offering.”
DOC Operations Manager Charlie Sklenar says this is fantastic news ahead of summer.
“Rob Roy is a popular area of Tititea/Mt Aspiring National Park and sees a huge number of visitors, especially during the summer months.
Rob Roy suspension bridge Image: DOC
“Engineering advice sought by DOC last year showed both Rob Roy and Blue Pools bridges could not sustain their current usage, and the Makarora River suspension bridge needed to be fully replaced.
“For the Rob Roy Glacier Track, visitor numbers were projected to increase from their previous daily averages of 180 people. As a result, a safety assessment was made which led to the decision to upgrade the bridge.”
Work to upgrade the Rob Roy suspension bridge included in-depth engineering, geotechnical and design assessments, complex rock drilling and structural work to improve the bridge’s ability to bear weight.
“Engineers have now inspected the completed bridge work and with all testing successfully certified late last week, we are happy to say the bridge is now open again to the public.
“Our field team has now removed the closure signage, and the DOC website has been updated to show that the track has reopened.
“We know people will take the opportunity to make the most of the Rob Roy Track and its upgraded bridge, and we’re looking forward to a great summer,” says Charlie.
Construction work on the Blue Pools and Makarora River bridges and replacement of the raised timber boardwalk connecting these two bridges is ongoing. Some delays have been experienced due to severe weather in previous months. These delays will unfortunately extend the closure period for this site; however, DOC remains committed to reopening it this summer.
Background information
The Makarora and Blue Pools bridges provide high-water access to the Young Valley and Gillespie Pass Circuit. Trampers should have river crossing skills and experience if they are undertaking this advanced tramp.
Do not cross if the river is flooded, you cannot find safe entry and exit points or are unsure it’s safe. Turn back or wait for the river to drop. If in doubt, stay out.
There is no access to the Blue Pools, however a shortened forest walk remains open.
Note: There are public conservation areas across the region that remain under snow and at risk of avalanche. With Labour Day fast approaching, trampers and adventurers are recommended to check the conditions before they head out.
Erosion-prone banks, sedimented estuaries and waterways smothered with all the worst weeds. This is the confronting riverscape in Doubtless Bay on Northland’s east coast.
Scratch below the surface though and you find secretive native fish, kōura and insects thriving in little pockets, excellent swimming holes, hapū who care deeply for their awa and whenua, and a community that totally supports work to restore the rivers. It’s for their children, mokopuna and future generations.
Climate change effects in the bay
DOC’s Ngā Awa river ranger Maddy Jopling lives in the area and has seen issues with flooding, erosion and pollution after storms and heavy rain first-hand. She’s not alone.
Farmers have come to fear heavy rain warnings, knowing they will be faced with costs to move and repair fences. Slips destabilise plantation forests and add to fine sediment being carried downstream. Hapū have noticed the loss of prime cockle beds near the Taipā River mouth in the last 20 years. Lifestyle block owners are concerned about the rivers nibbling away at their land and its value diminishing.
“We’re already seeing climate change happening here with more intense weather and more frequent, damaging floods,” says Maddy.
“And sadly, there are other things we’ll have to contend with in the future, such as worse droughts, increased risk of wildfires and sea-level rise affecting land around the coast.”
Taipā River estuary where hapū have noticed increased sediment and falling numbers of cockles in the last 20 years. Image credit: Sarah Wilcox.
Healthy rivers need healthy land
Maddy’s job as river ranger for Doubtless Bay is to work with hapū and community to restore the biodiversity of the rivers from source to sea. The bay’s three rivers and their tributaries are treated as a single catchment, so there’s a big area involved.
“It’s critical to think about the future when planting or restoring habitat for native species in Doubtless Bay. Otherwise we won’t get the improvements in river health and biodiversity that we all want.”
A local hapū collective and many local landowners, groups and agencies are interested in or are already involved in restoration work. There is also support from industry representatives.
“The hapū collective wanted to know more about how climate change is likely to affect their rohe and what they could do now to build resilience. I’d also heard a lot of people talk about how the trees they’d put in had collapsed or fencing that had been washed away by floods.”
River ranger Maddy Jopling pointing out locations of the day’s site visits. Image credit: Sarah Wilcox.
Equipping the community with best practice revegetation information
Maddy says she saw an opportunity for DOC to support future work by providing best-practice, practical information to help advise and prioritise restoration planting in the catchment.
“We wanted to help people make the best decisions about what to plant where and how to tackle the really difficult issues.
“People also told me about what had worked for them in the past. So when we were setting up the project, we knew it was going to be important to visit a whole range of different places, especially those that are typical of many places here. It makes sense that local people know their land better than anyone.”
Drawing on ecology and mapping expertise
The project started with hapū, community members and DOC science and technical staff taking forest ecologist Dr Adam Forbes and mapping specialist Dr Brad Case on a tour of the catchment. The group visited more than 20 diverse sites in the in the Awapoko, Oruru and Oruaiti subcatchments over 3 days in late summer.
Brad Case presenting maps at a community seminar before the site visits. Image credit: Sarah Wilcox.
Based on this information and the site visits, the pair have created treatments for 12 different types of habitat in the catchment. The treatments outline possible changes to the vegetation to take climate change and human preferences into account, protect the coast and freshwater and restore wetlands.
Adam says visiting all the different sites in Doubtless Bay was really important.
Adam Forbes discussing revegetation options on a site visit. Image credit: Sarah Wilcox.
“I couldn’t have done this without going to the sites and talking to everyone. It enabled me to find out what’s out there and what the issues are.”
He has mined a range of databases to create the treatments, drawing on list of plants for the area, planting densities, flammability ratings and listed options to tackle some of the catchment’s big issues.
“I’ve included a list of species that are relevant for restoration in these catchments for both the pioneer stage and the enrichment stage, once the canopy has been established. There are some neat regionally specific endemic species included, which provide options for people.”
Adam has helpfully provided information on timing, risks, management, maintenance and avenues of support.
Some examples of revegetation treatments
One suggested treatment is for sites in the lower rivers where īnanga spawn. The areas are currently open and weedy with willows and poplars that can keel over into the river during floods. Adam suggests getting light native forest established, including species that īnanga favour for spawning.
Alligator weed, crack willow and ginger are among the profilic weeds established at many sites in the lower rivers. Image credit: Sarah Wilcox.
Another treatment is for steep hill country with a tendency to slip. These areas are currently in pasture but establishing native vegetation would stabilise the hillsides and reduce erosion downstream.
Mapping reveals hotspots for priority work
Brad has created a series of catchment maps that show different information about the catchment such as susceptibility to erosion and flooding. Overlaying the maps highlights hotspots where multiple issues overlap.
Adam has included many of these areas in his 12 revegetation treatments.
Map of the Doubtless Bay catchment showing vulnerability to climate change effects from lowest (green) to highest (red).
Maddy continues, “When I saw the catchment mapping, I was really excited about the fact that it will help us prioritise restoration as a community at a landscape scale.”
“When you’re going out and doing your restoration work, the scale can be quite overwhelming. There’s so much to do! But the way Brad’s done the modelling makes it really obvious where we need to focus a bit more effort from a climate change perspective.”
“Adam and Brad have shared the report and discussed their findings with the community already. We’re really interested in feedback though and will continue to work with the community to put the information into practice.”
About Ngā Awa river restoration programme
Taking a whole catchment approach, Ngā Awa is working in partnership with iwi, hapū and communities to restore the biodiversity of 12 rivers from mountains to sea. The three rivers in Doubtless Bay are one of the restoration catchments.
The programme’s goal is to see river ecosystems and species thriving from mountains to sea, which enrich people’s lives. This is achieved by collaborating with others, co-designing and co-leading with iwi, hapū and whānau and recognising climate change. Planning the restoration work is underpinned by sound technical and scientific advice.
From left, Adam Forbes, Brad Case and Tiger Tukariri (Matarahurahu, Kenana) checking possible sites to visit in the upper Oruaiti catchment. Image credit: Sarah Wilcox.
“We want this special place to be in great shape for visitors when it reopens,” says DOC’s Hauraki-Waikato-Taranaki Regional Director Tinaka Mearns.
“Alongside cyclone damage, the area is also under threat from introduced pest plants That stand to undermine the area’s unique beauty and native biodiversity.”
Globally recognised for its idyllic small beach and famous rock arch, Mautohe Cathedral Cove has been a marine-only experience since February 2023, when extreme weather events triggered landslides which significantly damaged the track and resulted in its closure.
The involvement of the Predator Free Hauraki Coromandel Community Trust (PFHCCT) in the Mautohe Cathedral Cove work programme is a great boost for the project, says Ms Mearns.
“They’ve done some excellent work removing pest plant and tidying up vegetation across the reserve during the last few weeks,” she says. “It’s been hard physical work and we’ve been impressed by the results.
“Involving an organisation like this trust to contribute to walking access reinstatement supports the local community and helps us build a partnership with a recognised conservation contributor in the area.”
Jude Hooson, CEO of PFHCCT says the Trust’s members recognise the importance of Mautohe Cathedral Cove – and the significance of opening it up to the public – and are thrilled to be working alongside DOC and Ngāti Hei.
“We’re really delighted to be part of the collaborative effort. In many ways this is an extension of the recovery support our Field Support Team has already provided to groups across the peninsula,” she says.
“In addition to helping to open up the main walkway, this is also an opportunity to remove problematic pest plants as a first step towards enhancing the native biodiversity of this very special place.”
Meanwhile, visitors to the site continue to be an issue for staff and contractors working to reinstate the track.
Members of the public accessing the track while it is closed are compromising the delivery of the work required to fully reopen it and are entering an active and hazardous worksite.
DOC staff and contractors turn away dozens of visitors every day.
Background information
The walking track to Mautohe Cathedral Cove was closed in February 2023 after it sustained significant damage during Cyclone Gabrielle. In July, funding of a work programme to reinstate walking access to the cove’s famous beach was announced by Conservation Minister Tama Potaka.
Many sites are already booked out over the peak Christmas and New Year period, but there are still opportunities for those looking to explore Northland’s natural beauty over the upcoming summer period.
DOC campsites offer affordable holiday options in pristine settings, and staff work hard to ensure campers can enjoy the summer season with minimal disruptions, says Bronwyn Bauer Hunt, Operations Manager Te Pēwhairangi (Bay of Islands).
“Northland’s DOC campsites have always been a favourite for summer holidaymakers, offering unique experiences from coastal views to tranquil bush settings. We encourage people to plan ahead and book early where possible, especially during peak times and be aware of the rules in place to protect these special places.”
“Our islands have special biodiversity values and are home to threatened plant and animal species, some of which only exist in a few places. Wildfire can be devastating to these native ecosystems and we are very concerned about the threat of pest seaweed Caulerpa,” says Bronwyn.
Background information
Important information for campers and day trippers
Fires: Visitors are reminded not to light fires on any of the islands due to the significant risk to local wildlife and ecosystems.
Biosecurity: It’s vital to follow biosecurity rules to protect these fragile environments—clean your gear and check for pests before visiting. It is illegal to fish or anchor a vessel in the defined controlled area of Te Rāwhiti Inlet to help control the spread of Caulerpa.
Marine Mammal Sanctuary Bay of Islands: Please respect the sanctuary rules and avoid entering designated safe zones to protect dolphins and other marine life.
Dogs: Dogs are not permitted at DOC campsites and areas to prevent disturbance or harm to native wildlife.
Northland campsite availability for summer 2024/2025:
While some campsites are booked solid through the busy holiday period, others still have availability for those seeking an adventure later in the summer.
Uretiti Campsite—50% availability from Christmas onwards, with more space opening up after the peak holiday period.
Trounson Kauri Park and Puketi campsites—plenty of availability through December and January.
Puriri, Waikahoa, Urupukapuka Island Campsites—fully booked until mid-January, with availability after that.
Otamure Campsite—booked out until the end of January, with some availability from February onwards.
Some campsites do not need to be booked and operate on a first-come, first-served basis.
How to camp responsibly:
Be prepared—check the latest information on weather, travel conditions, wildlife, walking tracks, and the gear you’ll need before heading out.
Respect nature—use biodegradable products, and keep your washing away from rivers, lakes, and the ocean to protect local ecosystems. Most camps have a pack in pack out policy.
Check campsite rules—understand where to pitch your tent and whether there are fire restrictions before lighting any outdoor fires.
Plan for waste—not all campsites have waste disposal, so campers should take rubbish with them when leaving.
Book early—secure your spot at a DOC campsite by booking in advance, especially during peak periods.
“A lot of these islands are also pest free so checking your boat for any rodent stowaways and other unwanted pests is vital. Dogs are not permitted on islands managed by DOC as they disturb or threaten wildlife.’’
There is a total fire ban on conservation islands in Northland. Anyone who lights an unauthorised fire could face up to two years’ imprisonment or a fine of up to $200,000, plus the costs of the damage and putting out the fire.
It’s Save the Kiwi Week (14-20 October), the perfect time to highlight the work of the Friends of Rotoiti to grow the roroa population at the Rotoiti Nature Recovery Project mainland island within Nelson Lakes National Park.
DOC Biodiversity Supervisor Ricki Mitchell says the volunteer group provides massive support for DOC’s work.
“The Friends of Rotoiti have invested a significant amount of time to support trapping efforts and help drive kiwi restoration work here.
“Thanks to their work, the future for roroa in the mainland island is bright. This is quite a contrast to 20 years ago, when there were no kiwi whatsoever in Nelson Lakes National Park.”
Friends of Rotoiti chairperson Wayne Sowman is an integral part of the Great Spotted Kiwi Project and making the mainland island safe for roroa release.
“I had the privilege of helping DOC take transmitters off three of the founder kiwi in 2018. It was thrilling. We took a transmitter off a male, who was found with two females and two chicks, and we found a female in a burrow with a male whose transmitter had fallen off,” Wayne says.
“Although COVID slowed things down, an aerial predator control operation in 2020 meant mustelid numbers were low enough for more roroa introductions, so we translocated eight from Kahurangi National Park in 2023.
“Friends of Flora, who do conservation work in Kahurangi, have provided incredible support with the translocations. They’ve helped to guide and plan translocations and supported us on the ground.
“Recent funding from Save the Kiwi Charitable Trust has allowed us to do acoustic surveys and find vacant territories and suitable sites for the release of new roroa in the mainland island.”
Wayne says the plan is to have one last translocation early next year.
“We plan to add 11 more kiwi into the mainland island early next year, bringing the number of ‘founder’ roroa up to 40, which is the number required to establish a healthy, genetically-diverse population.”
He says introducing roroa is hard work but extremely rewarding.
“I hope these great results will encourage people to take up conservation. We at the Friends of Rotoiti would be delighted for more people to join us.
“It’s been a long journey but a great privilege to see roroa thrive in the Rotoiti Nature Recovery Project.”
Ricki says that underpinning this story is iwi and hapū, from Tasman to the West Coast, who have supported the translocation of roroa between rohe.
“The partnerships between iwi and hapū, the Friends and DOC is pivotal to success of this project.”
Background information
The largest of our kiwi species, the threatened great spotted kiwi/roroa mainly live at higher altitudes in some South Island national parks.
Despite their size, roroa chicks are still vulnerable to stoats, particularly during South Island beech mast conditions. Roroa are also slow breeders and only lay one egg per season. Both parents incubate the egg.
In the Rotoiti Nature Recovery Project mainland island, the total number of roroa is unknown as they don’t have transmitters. Call counts are invalid as roroa in this area don’t tend to call much. However, since they were introduced in the early 2000s, the ‘founder’ birds have reproduced and the mainland island has a breeding population.
