Get involved in September

Ōhope Spit Care Group and Halo Whakatāne planting day.

For anyone who has not yet planted a tree this winter there is still an opportunity. Either in your own backyard or with the Ōhope Spit Care Group and Halo Whakatāne who are hosting a planting day on Wednesday, 6 September 2025, for Conservation Week. Wild rabbits present a significant challenge in sensitive environments such as the Ōhope Spit due to their rapid reproduction rates and extensive consumption of vegetation. At a national level, it is estimated that only little more than 10 per cent of the original extent of sand dunes remain.

Ohope Spit dunes blowout. Image: BOPRC

Since September 2023, over 2,500 native seedlings have been planted, with an additional 1,900 planned for this season. Last year's control operation successfully brought the population down to around 20 individuals, significantly decreasing browsing pressure on young plants. However, rabbit numbers literally bounced back by the rabbits doing what they are best known for.  This year’s planting day will follow three pindone applications in July and August. To get involved in the planting day, please contact Bridget Palmer bridget@halowhakatane.org.nz or phone: 027 496 7684. Or check out the HALO Facebook page.

Steep Slope Solutions - September event

Landowners in the Waiōtahe Water Care and Ōhiwa Nukuhou Catchment Groups

are keen to keep abreast of best practice advice for farming and managing the

landscapes of the Waiotahe and Nukuhou hill country. Landowners

from across the Eastern Bay of Plenty are invited to join the catchment groups for a steep slopes solutions-focused event. Representatives of leading agencies will share their advice on managing 30-40 degree slopes, ranging from retiring land to

environmentally sustainable options to continue farming. The date is tentatively set for the second week of September. Please contact the WWC coordinator at frances.vanalphen@landcare.org.nz for more information or to register for the event.