Communities Protecting the Gateway to Abel Tasman
Stretching along the beautiful coastline from Mārahau to Tapu Bay — the gateway to Abel Tasman National Park — this community conservation project brings together local pest control groups, iwi, landowners and partners to create a connected predator control network.
This work builds on years of incredible mahi by dedicated local volunteers — including Mārahau Halo, Otuwhero Wetland Trust, Kaiteriteri Mountain Bike Park, Split Apple and Love Our Little Blues — who have been protecting wildlife and restoring habitats accross the coastline. Their efforts have already made a big difference, and this project will take that momentum even further.
Project Janszoon’s mahi inside the Abel Tasman National Park has helped native birdlife flourish, and that abundance is spilling out into the surrounding landscape. But pests are still a major challenge. By working together, sharing knowledge, and filling the gaps in predator control, they will expand safe habitats for native species and strengthen the natural buffer to help protect the park’s fauna and flora.
Supported by Tasman Environmental Trust, this first phase brings local trapping groups together to build capacity, and deepen partnerships with ngā iwi o Te Tauihu to develop a cohesive long-term predator control plan.
Together, they will create a truly community-driven network to protect and restore the natural and cultural taonga that make Mārahau to Tapu Bay so special.
Photo credits: Lift Off Abel Tasman, Barekiwi, Nelson Tasman, Roady.
