For 25 years the restoration of Matakohe/Limestone Island in the Whangarei Harbour has been community driven.
What once was degraded pasture is now a functioning coastal broadleaf forest ecosystem thanks to the help of a wide range of people.
The sanctuary has historical importance as the site of the Matakohe pa and is home to the impressive ruins of one of Whangarei’s earliest industrial sites – the Limestone Island cement works, founded in 1856. To maintain the mana of the island and its environment, a service vehicle has been essential to this project.
“Our volunteers have planted over 150,000 trees to help restore the biodiversity of Matakohe, their generosity and hard work has been vital. We now have reintroduced endangered geckos, lizards and sea birds.”
“Foundation North’s support has allowed us to replace our very worn out island 4WD with a safe and versatile Polaris ATV for moving loads like plants, building materials, conservation supplies and fauna around the island and launching boats, to support our restoration work.”
“Matakohe/Limestone Island the only kiwi crèche in Northland. Well over 100 kiwi have come and gone from the island to other community restoration projects on the mainland.“
