Locals can look forward to significant ecological restoration projects in Okoromai Bay and O Mahurangi next year.

Auckland Council is leading the charge to transform these areas into thriving habitats.

In February, work will begin on restoring the Waterfall Gully stream terminus at Okoromai Bay in Shakespear Regional Park.

The project aims to reconnect the wetland with the bay, reviving a long-lost ecological link.

Chair of the Parks Committee Ken Turner explains that this restoration work is part of a larger effort to offset ecological losses caused by infrastructure developments.

"The scale of this impact means we need to strike a balance by revegetating or protecting land elsewhere," Mr Turner says.

The Waterfall Gully stream, currently culverted under the amenity lawn area, will be 'daylighted' and restored to its former natural path.

This will improve the ecological health of the area, creating a more vibrant wetland habitat.

A pedestrian bridge will be constructed over the revitalised stream, and extensive landscape planting will line the stream's edges.

In addition to the stream restoration, a massive revegetation effort will take place in O Mahurangi in winter 2025.

Approximately 38 hectares will be covered, with large areas of pasture retired to make way for new forest and wetland habitats.

Auckland Council's Manager Regional Parks Scott De Silva notes that this will create vital connections for wildlife across the open sanctuary.

"The reduction in pastureland will result in a decrease in grazing sheep, and the new forest corridors will benefit native birds like the bellbird, tui, kererū, and kiwi," De Silva adds.

These projects reflect a broader vision for ecological offsets, where the loss of native habitat due to development is mitigated by creating or enhancing habitats elsewhere.

Have a story to share?

Contact [email protected]