A Matariki planting day held at the Ruakākā Wildlife Reserve recently, celebrated not only the season of reflection and new beginnings, but also the enduring efforts to protect one of Northland’s most precious coastal ecosystems.

Northland Regional Council Coastcare Biodiversity Advisor, Brooke Gray, was thrilled to support the day along with community members, volunteers, and trustees from the Bream Bay Coastal Care Trust.

“The Ruakākā dunes are important coastal remnants that, although constrained by human development, still provide vital ecological links” says Brooke.

The Ruakākā Wildlife Refuge, near the Ruakākā River mouth, holds special significance as a sanctuary for native flora and fauna.

At the heart of this dune restoration effort is the Bream Bay Coastal Care Trust, a community-driven organisation, largely made up of volunteers, that has spent the last two decades controlling invasive weeds, planting native species, and nurturing the dunes back to health.

Brooke says their mahi (work) has been nothing short of transformative to the area.

While weeds remain one of the biggest threats to the integrity of these dunes, the Trust has been relentless in its weed control efforts, especially in the refuge area. A fire in 2020 intensified the urgency of this work. Without intervention, fire-loving exotic species could have overwhelmed the recovering landscape, choking out native regrowth. However, thanks to the Trust’s dedication, the dunes are bouncing back.

A heartfelt thanks goes out to everyone who showed up and got their hands dirty to ensure that future generations can enjoy the beauty and biodiversity of Bream Bay’s coastal environment.