Nestled in the coastal and mountainous region of the western side of the North Island, Patui can be found near East Taranaki, within the Matemateaonga Ecological District and Patea river catchment.
The Patui Forest is a unique ecosystem that includes a mix of original and old growth forest with smaller areas of modified native vegetation (mainly mānuka).
Half the land remains a mature native forest whilst the rest was cleared for grazing or has been subject to historical logging, disrupting the natural ecosystem and affecting the ability for wildlife to survive within the forest.
Thankfully the area has been under private ownership and was not intensively farmed, meaning a glimmer of hope remains for the restoration of this stunning native habitat.
The Native Forest Restoration Trust (NFRT) have created a Biodiversity Plan for Patui, including a work programme focused on:
- Legal protection
- Signage
- Track-cutting
- Upgrades and maintenance of fencing to protect access to bush remnants
- Invasive pest, plant and animal control
- Assessing and regenerating ecosystem conditions
An extensive project is already underway, with 12 hectares already planted, including 14,000 mānuka as an initial cover canopy crop.
Patui is home to incredibly rare wildlife including long-tailed bats and a diverse range of birds.The tui, fantail and morepork thrive in the forest while rarer species such as New Zealand falcon, North Island robin, whitehead, grey duck and dabchick have all been observed in recent times. Even kiwi are present here!
Reforestation not only removes CO2 but creates additional habitat for these precious native species to live. The project will focus on planting a high proportion of eco-sourced native mānuka as a pioneer species, to establish conditions that will allow other species to thrive.
This project provides employment to local organisations and community for trapping, track cutting, fencing, planting and maintenance.
In due course, the Native Forest Restoration Trust plans to open Patui as a nature reserve for all locals and visitors to New Zealand to enjoy!
