Green light given to enhance planting at tourist hotspot
One of the Mackenzie Basin's most photographed locations will benefit from nearby native planting and weed control, thanks to the support of the local water zone committee.
The Upper Waitaki Zone Committee has endorsed a funding request from the Mackenzie Cooperating Parish to continue their work on a section of land across from the Church of the Good Shepherd, in Lake Tekapo.
Stage one: Weed removal and native planting
In 2022, Mackenzie Cooperating Parish and community members worked to remove weed species, like lupins and planted several native seedlings.
This project was supported by the Upper Waitaki Water Zone Committee's annual Action Plan Fund.
Stage two: Enhancements and investments
Stage two of the enhancement project will include another round of pest control, erecting a 300m long rabbit-proof fence, and planting more native species.
Of the $7,500 allocated to the church, $3,300 will go towards fencing costs and $4,200 to the purchasing of native plants.
Commenting on the progress, project spokesperson Tanya Izard said the fencing of the area has now been completed, though winter conditions have delayed initial planting timeframes.
“Planting will enhance the whole area aesthetically and environmentally, providing a habitat for the local flora and fauna to thrive,” Tanya Izard said.
Fencing of the area has now been completed
“We’ve sourced some matagouri plants and the others are in the nursery ready for planting. The lying snow has only disappeared in the last week and with a possible few more episodes ahead of us before the end of winter, we won’t be planting now until October."
Stage two of the project, which includes a second round of weed control and introducing new plants, is scheduled to be completed by the end of this year.
Support and funding
If you or your community group, have an eligible project that will help improve water management, enhance biodiversity and/or engage the community, please contact zone committee facilitator murray.griffin@ecan.govt.nz to find out more.