Poynter Nature Reserve restoration work undertaken

Work to enhance the green corridor along the Waimakariri River at Poynter Nature Reserve has been undertaken thanks to support from Environment Canterbury’s Immediate Steps Programme.

Poynter Nature Reserve lies at the confluence of the Waimakariri and Kaiapoi Rivers. The 35 hectare reserve has tidal streams running throughout, raupo wetlands and other native streamside vegetation. There is currently a mixture of native wetland species, introduced river control species and existing native plantings that are up to 20 years old.

Environment Canterbury’s Regional Park Ranger, Mimouk Hannan says that the funding has helped to create a healthy wetland for native birds, fish, and invertebrates, in addition to thriving riparian and wetland vegetation.

“The project has allowed for vital weed control and restoration work to be done at the confluence of the Waimakariri and Kaiapoi rivers. The area is part of the Waimakariri River Regional Park which stretches from the mouth of the river to the gorge and is managed by Environment Canterbury to safeguard biodiversity and to provide a community recreational resource.”

The project was chosen for financial support by the Waimakariri Water Management Zone Committee, which represents the community interests. It builds on work that Environment Canterbury has been doing in the Reserve for around 20 years and which saw the development of a formal restoration plan in 2008.

“The project demonstrates the Waimakariri Water Management Zone Committee’s support and appreciation for these important biodiversity sites,” says Ms Hannan.

The area is a popular recreational spot for locals but the September and February earthquakes caused significant liquefaction damage in the area, filling creeks and drying them out.

Walking tracks and the car park have also been damaged by the earthquakes and work is underway to assess how best to reinstate them.

The Waimakariri Zone Committee has $500,000 of Immediate Steps funding towards the protection of biodiversity over the next five years.

A five year $10 million ‘Immediate Steps’ biodiversity protection and restoration programme was launched in 2010 as part of the Canterbury Water Management Strategy. Through Immediate Steps, $2 million each year is available for protecting and restoring biodiversity in and around freshwater habitats. Of this two thirds comes from Environment Canterbury rates and one third comes from land owner contributions.