September 24, 2012
Orakei-Korako to benefit from biodiversity grants
A North Island Maori trust has benefited from biodiversity grants to protect the natural and cultural values of its land.
The Ngati Tahu-Ngati Whaoa Runanga Trust was awarded $67,735 over three years to control wilding pines at Orakei Korako [Red Hills], a 120ha geothermal area just north of Taupo.
It got a second $17,500 grant from the Biodiversity Fund for vegetation and bat surveys within the nearby Tutukau Forest.
Its environmental liaison officer, Evelyn Forrest, says the iwi wants to restore and reconnect with important tribal areas.
Iwi members will be involved in the weed control, field work, planning and monitoring for the projects.
She says the trust also works with others such as the Department of Conservation and Waikato Regional Council to protect and enhance tribal lands.