Kakahu Wetland Restoration Project

The restoration, rehabilitation and reinstation of the Kakahu Wetland in Geraldine Forest is a long-term project that started prior to Zolve Environmental in 2020.

Part of the Port Blakely Forest, this 12Ha block had historically been drained and used for cattle grazing. With the intention of reinstating the wetland to accommodate biodiversity, enhance water quality, support Mahinga Kai and social/ recreational values to the district, Port Blakely installed a dam to restore the natural standing water and have undertaken several stages of planting. Working with Zolve Environmental, the plans for the project this year should see 10% of the wetland fully reinstated and thriving. Our involvement on the project includes site analysis, species selection, planting plans, maintenance and pest management planning and implementation, planting, ongoing monitoring, reporting, funding assistance and long-term planning and management. 

This wetland is of great importance to many aspects of the local area. This wetland, and the tributaries that feed it, join the Kakahu River that has poor water quality and has serious problems with phosphorus levels. By rehabilitating and restoring the Kakahu Wetland we can significantly improve the health of the awa downstream, increase biodiversity and reinstate a flourishing ecosystem. The Pekapeka Long tail Bat, one of Aotearoa, New Zealand's most endangered species has been recorded roosting and living in the forests, with the restoration of the wetland we will be able to create a natural habitat and feeding corridor that we hope will help to boost the numbers of these taonga. Through considered species selection this wetland will also create a bountiful area for Mahinga Kai with unrestricted access for Ngai Tahu to gather from, reinstating this historically well used area. 

Upon completion, this area will be classified as High Conservation Value Forest (HCVF) under FSC certification. It also supports the significant network of Significant Natural Areas (SNAs) identified by Mike Harding through the Geraldine Forest  

With the intention of building a walking and cycling track around the wetland for the local community and general public to access and enjoy, this is an exciting, meaningful and ongoing long-term project for the team at Zolve Environmental.