Rangitīkei recognised as a finalist at local government awards

Tutaenui Reserve Restoration Project has been named as a finalist in the Local Government New Zealand awards in the environmental wellbeing category.

The reservoir sits North of Marton township and is a supply for local drinking water, prior to the completion of the project it has not been open to public use for decades.

In 2018 we commissioned a Tutaenui Reservoir Concept Plan to remove problematic pine trees, restore the native forest and develop a community recreation space. Council teamed up with a group of local volunteers to implement the plan.

The site is now a thriving hub for community recreation and has also had success with pest eradication and the reestablishment of fish species and native bird species.

"Council staff, contractors, the Tutaenui Restoration Society, and the wider community have been working long and hard to get reserve to this point. This has included planting in excess of 50,000 native trees, predator and weed control, removal of rouge trees and pine seedlings, track maintenance, the installation of a bridge, kiosk, picnic tables and bench seating.”

“The project is a wonderful demonstration of what can be achieved when communities work together,” said Murray Philipps – Manger, Parks and Reserves.

The winner will be announced on Friday 22 July.

If you’re looking for something to do this long weekend, head out to the reserve for a walk or a bike. We are also always on the hunt for more volunteers and we have planting days coming up. Visit the Tutaenui Restoration Society Facebook page to stay up to date.