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The Government is investing $3.5 million over five years in the restoration of more than 3000 hectares of Tongariro National Park damaged by two major fires last year, Conservation Minister Tama Potaka says.
Tongariro National Park is a dual World Heritage site and a key contributor to the Ruapehu district economy.
“The fires have damaged biodiversity, disrupted recreation, and affected the livelihoods of families and businesses across Ruapehu District,” says Potaka.
The funding will come from the International Visitor Levy (IVL) and will support weed control, pest management and biodiversity monitoring.
“The IVL ensures visitor revenue goes back into maintaining and improving the places that support local jobs, businesses and communities,” he says.
Ngāti Hikairo ki Tongariro is working alongside the Department of Conservation to deliver Maunga Ora, a restoration plan informed by science, tikanga and mātauranga Māori.
“Recovery is already visible, with native plants pushing through the charred ground. But without sustained weed control and pest management, including managing deer, that regeneration will be at risk,” says Potaka.
“I want to acknowledge the commitment of Ngāti Hikairo ki Tongariro, DOC staff and the wider Ruapehu community who have been working on the ground since the fires. Their partnership is critical to restoring the mauri of this landscape.
“The investment restores ecological resilience while backing the regional economy and people who depend on it.
“Tongariro is our taonga and restoring its mauri is essential. That’s why the Government is working to secure its long-term future,” he says.
