Sunrise on Ruapehu from the Lodge
Rotorua Branch was established in 1968 and has over 100 members.
We have three conservation projects that have work days. These are pest control in Tikitapu Reserve, tree planting and maintenance of the Violet Bonnington Reserve, and a new project for weed control and restoration planting at Linton Park. The branch organises for several speakers to present on a variety of topics of interest to members, and always has a few field trips during the year. Members also have access to the F&B Ruapehu lodge.
The Rotorua Branch also has an active kids Kiwi Conservation Club (KCC) group.
Tikitapu Reserve Project
Throughout the year the Rotorua Branch conducts a pest control program in a large area of bush near Lake Tikitapu (Blue Lake).
The Tikitapu Reserve Project was started in 2002, primarily to save and protect the rare native mistletoe plants and the native birds. Subsequently branch volunteers have developed and continue to maintain two tracks in the reserve. In 2022 we received a Branch Award for our efforts and commitment to this project. The impact of this work is that White mistletoe (Tupeia antarctica) has increased from 218 to 8044 live plants in 2024 within Tikitapu Scenic Reserve. The Green mistletoe (Ileostylus micranthus), has naturally colonised the reserve and now numbers at 56 plants, up from zero.
Violet Bonnington Reserve
The Violet Bonnington Reserve (VBR) is a small reserve that was purchased by the Rotorua Branch of Forest & Bird in 2006. Members have been carrying out restoration plantings at the site ever since and it is now well covered. It provides access to walkways on Mt Ngongotahā, and has a public picnic area.
Linton Park West Project
Our Branch's latest project, starting in 2024, aims to remove and control weeds in Linton Park and undertake restoration plantings. This project is having a rapid impact on the existing native plants, freeing them from the smother of ivy and other creeping and climbing plants.
Other Projects in the Bay of Plenty
Our members and friends are often involved in other conservation projects in the Bay of Plenty such as the Kaharoa Kokako Trust, Landcare Ōkāreka, Ōtanewainuku .....
Get involved
There are numerous opportunities to volunteer and get involved in projects on the Rotorua area. We are always looking for help with our major projects so please get in touch using the branch email address.
rotorua.branch@forestandbird.org.nz
