From Poplar Avenue looking south, in the left side of the photo Manuka and native regrowth is evident. Over the fence on the right side grassland is only possible through drainage, spraying and grazing.
Raumati South Resident’s Association President Trevor Daniell says:
“Much of the Park was under water and local Maori could canoe from Raumati to Paekakariki. From the 1860s, QE Park was farmed by pakeha settlers and the drainage of the ancient swamps began.
“The area is low lying and naturally reverting back to native bush and wetland, but, huge amounts of money are spent maintaining drainage and spraying chemicals in the interests of farming sheep and cattle. Where stock is not grazing, native plants and grasses have established themselves.
“We urge Greater Wellington Regional Council to stop draining and filling in the swamps (such as near Poplar Avenue) and retire the land from farming and let nature do its course, with a little assistance from community planting of indigenous trees, shrubs and grasses.”
Reblogged this on Rangitikei Enviromental Health Watch.