The Kōpūrererua Valley Rotary Centennial Trust needs 200 volunteers to plant 4500 native trees and shrubs on September 29.

This milestone event – part of a 20-year effort to restore one of Tauranga’s hidden gems – marks a significant addition to the ongoing restoration of Kōpurererua Valley Reserve.

During the past two decades Tauranga Rotary clubs, in partnership with Tauranga City Council, Ngāi Tamarāwaho, the Bay of Plenty Regional Council and dedicated community members, have been transforming the historic 364ha wetland.

Former Tauranga City Council staff member responsible for K Valley, Diane Patton, and Buddy Mikaere at 2023’s planting day. Photo: supplied.

So far, the project has seen an investment of $2.1 million, with another $15,000 to be added with the latest planting.

Kōpūrererua Valley Rotary Centennial Trust board chair Lyall Holmes is scouting for 200 volunteers to help on planting day, with people asked to register at www.eventspronto.co.nz/event5622

“With pre-dug holes, we’re confident that we can get 4500 plants in the ground within just three hours. Participants will be rewarded with a sausage sizzle afterwards.”

Kōpūrererua Valley. Photo: Tauranga City Council.

Students from local secondary schools and community members eager to contribute to the restoration of this “jewel in Tauranga’s crown” will join in on the day.

Historical significance 

Lyall says the plants, sourced from Naturally Native, will include species like te kouka and kahikatea, chosen for their suitability to the valley’s wetland habitat.

People planting in Kōpūrererua Valley in 2023. Photo: Supplied.

“Funds raised by Rotary from BOPRC’s Environmental Enhancement fund and Powerco will pay for a mixture of plant species. Gate Pā School has also generously donated 500 plants to the cause.”

Kōpūrererua Valley Reserve, one of Australasia’s largest urban wetlands, stretches from Judea to Tauriko and is bordered by the neighbourhoods of Te Reti, Gate Pā, Greerton, Westridge and Cambridge Heights.

Rotary Club of Tauranga Sunrise members Chris Dever and Wayne Shadbolt planting Kōpūrererua Valley in 2023. Photo: Supplied.

The valley holds deep historical significance for the local hapū, Ngāi Tamarāwaho, who once inhabited the area.  For the hapū, Waikareao Estuary and Kōpūrererua Valley are their kete kai (food baskets). It was also a site of significant 19th Century battles between Māori and British colonial forces, with remains of Puketoromiro Pā and archaeological sites still present.

Ngāi Tamarāwaho is mana whenua of Kopurererua Valley and this place has special significance to the hapū. Photo: TCC.

Climate resilience

Lyall says the restoration project not only aims to revive the valley’s native wildlife but includes the realignment of the river channel to restore the path of the Taurikura Stream.

“This will enhance water quality, assist in flood control, restore fish and bird habitats, and improve the mauri (life force) of the area, ultimately contributing to climate change resilience.”

The valley’s network of walking and cycle paths gives the public access to this open green space, its rich history, and a convenient way to bypass traffic congestion.

Volunteers who can help from 9.30am-12.30pm on September 29 can register at: www.eventspronto.co.nz/event5622

The meeting point for the planting at Kōpūrererua Valley on September 29 is at the southern end of the reserve via Marshall Ave. Image: Tauranga City Council.