Jeremy and Kate Cullwick are kaitiaki of a fenced and covenanted ngahere (bush) block on their farm, Tapahia. Inside the deer fencing, a mix of freshly planted natives and naturally regenerating seedlings is growing.

This collaboration involved the Pōrangahau Catchment Group, Hawke's Bay Regional Council, Trees That Count, and QE II National Trust. Together, they aim to preserve this ngahere block for future generations. The initiative was supported by the kaitiakitanga (guardianship) of the Cullwicks.

The ngahere includes mature kānuka and kōwhai trees, alongside native species like kōhūhū, māhoe, houhere, and kawakawa. A stream with a small waterfall within the block serves as a habitat for a population of koura (freshwater crayfish).

Maddy McLean, PCG Priority Projects Coordinator, emphasises that protecting the ngahere from browsing stock will allow the native bush to thrive.

This project was part of the PCG's Priority Project Programme, which supported landowners and the community in initiatives aimed at improving the health of water bodies in the Pōrangahau catchment. Please get in touch with Maddy if you have new projects you're keen to pursue.

Land Guardians

Jeremy and Kate Cullwick are kaitiaki of a fenced and covenanted ngahere (bush) block on their farm, Tapahia. Inside the deer fencing, a mix of freshly planted natives and naturally regenerating seedlings is growing.