The funding will go toward conservation work on Ahuriri Estuary (pictured) among a raft of other projects. Photo / Warren Buckland
The funding will go toward conservation work on Ahuriri Estuary (pictured) among a raft of other projects. Photo / Warren Buckland
More than $10 million will be injected into conservation projects across Hawke's Bay to create jobs and protect vital ecosystems.
It is estimated 60 jobs will be created over the next three years through the Jobs for Nature programme in the region.
Conservation Minister Kiri Allan said six community projectsand iwi-led projects focused on "rehabilitation of unique and valuable ecosystems" would benefit from the $10 million.
"The cumulative effect of this latest investment - $10,542,000 through our Jobs for Nature programme - will make a measurable and lasting difference in the region, protecting our most important natural resources for everyone to enjoy," Allan said.
"Combined, these projects are contributing to a really ambitious conservation effort across the region, while upskilling and offering meaningful work to locals affected by the economic impact of Covid-19."
Cape Sanctuary, a 2500 hectare reserve at Cape Kidnappers, will get a boost through the funding. Photo / Supplied
"Several of the initiatives are iwi-led, creating new opportunities for them to build knowledge and skills while working towards shared conservation goals," Allan said.
"[The projects include] predator control, fencing and ongoing restoration at some well-loved and nationally significant sites including Ahuriri Estuary, a refuge for more than 70 species of resident and migratory birds including the kuaka/godwit, and [conservation work on] Balls Clearing Scenic Reserve."
The projects are being funded for between one and three years.
Mauri Oho project ($2.5 million) Funding to employ 12 people. Led by Manaaki Ruahine Trust, this project focuses on trapping rats and mustelids on Māori and public conservation land in the Northern Ruahine Range and neighbouring farmland.
Te Ngāhere project ($2 million) Funding to employ nine people. Led by Te Ngahere Ltd, this project focuses on pest control, trapping, fencing and planting in Cape Sanctuary, Kaweka Forest Park, Balls Clearing Reserve and various waterways.
Kia eke Te Ngarue/Kia eke Arapawanui project ($1.9 million) Funding to employ eight people. Led by Maungaharuru-Tangitū Charitable Trust, the project aims to restore the Te Ngarue and Arapawanui rivers.
Kaitiaki Taiao project ($1.6 million) Funding to employ seven. Led by Ngāti Pāhauwera Development Trust, this project focuses on management, native planting, kaka beak protection and waterway, lake and wetland protection between Te Hauke and Waihua.
Te Whanganui ā Orotu project ($1.5 million) Funding to employ eight people. Led by Te Taiwhenua o Te Whanganui a Orotu, this project has a focus on wahine who have school-aged children. It includes restoration through pest and weed control of the 470ha Ahuriri Estuary.
Ka Hikitia project ($1 million) Funding to employ 15 people. Led by Te Wai Mauri Limited, which has been established to upskill unemployed whānau members to become Kaitiaki Rangers to undertake conservation activities within their community.
