Ngā Uruora is approaching its 30th birthday

In (nearly) thirty years we’ve achieved a lot, including what some thought was insurmountable: replanting a former gravel quarry and tackling the impenetrable infestation of morning glory in Waikākāriki wetland, turning it into a native dominated wetland once more.

But there is still plenty of work to do.

As a volunteer group, we’re only able to manage part of the Paekākāriki escarpment. That’s partly because of the steep and challenging terrain, and partly because our active volunteer base numbers fewer than twenty people. Yet this landscape is hugely important. The Paekākāriki escarpment is recognised by Greater Wellington Regional Council as a Key Native Ecosystem and a priority habitat for conservation management.

Recently, we’ve been working with Greater Wellington to explore how we can work smarter, not harder, across our project area. Like many community groups, we’re facing the challenge of an ageing volunteer base. Some long-time members are understandably moving on to less demanding projects, and attracting new volunteers isn’t always easy when your patch stretches ten kilometres from Paekākāriki to Pukerua Bay.

We’re hopeful that new approaches will help us continue protecting the escarpment’s forests and threatened species while making the work more manageable. This could mean greater use of bait stations and other tools, although no final decisions have been made. One thing is certain: until Predator Free 2050 reaches every corner of the country, local conservation groups like ours are helping hold the line.

And we’re still making progress.

Every weed removed before it becomes established is a victory. Every possum controlled before numbers explode makes a difference. Every volunteer hour helps protect a landscape that is treasured by many.

Memberships are now up for renewal, so please consider signing up again. New members of course welcome and encouraged. As we look ahead to the next thirty years, we’d love your support.