The Te Puke branch of Forest & Bird was established 24 years ago. We have monthly field trips and six evening meetings a year in February, March, April, September, October and November.
Our nursery team has great success with growing trees and we recently assisted with the revegetation of Papamoa Hills Regional Park, in partnership with Bay of Plenty Regional Council and Flooring Xtra.
Major Projects
Our branch raised funds and facilitated the setting up of the Otanewainuku Kiwi Trust in 2002. We support the work of the Trust with pest control and bird monitoring. We also provide guides for open days and school visits to Otanewainuku Forest - 1200 hectares of native unlogged forest, only 25 minutes drive from Te Puke and Tauranga city.
Additionally we have worked hard to raise awareness to protect Maketu Spit as a nesting area for New Zealand dotterel. A local group has since been set up to focus on looking after the birds and restoring wetlands in the Maketu area.
Another major project is the revegetation of the site at Rotoehu Forest Village where we transformed a bare patch of land. By planting native trees, weeding and spraying noxious plants and nuturing the growing forest it is now a thriving and attractive spot on the road into Rotoehu.
Te Puke Issues
Our biggest issue is undoubtedly the Te Puke Stone Enterprises Quarry. The site abuts Oropi Forest and years ago one of our field trips uncovered an unknown population of Hochstetters frogs in the headwaters of the Raparapahoe Stream close to the quarry workings. We are still fighting to have the frogs habitat protected.
Get involved
We are keen to involve local people in our activities and welcome volunteers. You can help us grow trees and seedlings, come on our monthly field trips or attend our evening meetings. We invite you to learn more about the natural areas in our region and get to know other kindred spirits!