Banks Peninsula plans ahead to protect precious parks

Management Plans for two picturesque parks on Banks Peninsula have won approval.

Banks Peninsula Community Board members have unanimously signed off on the plans for Misty Peaks and Te Oka, ensuring the protection of both reserves for future generations.

Christchurch City Council Head of Parks Andrew Rutledge says the Management Plans protect the natural environment and provide the scope for enhancement.

“The strong commitment of the local Community Board and the people of Banks Peninsula in supporting the delivery of protective plans for these two stunning reserves means that the parks can flourish and be appreciated and enjoyed by everyone,” Mr Rutledge says.

“The plans ensure that we can preserve the region’s biodiversity by enhancing the natural habitat and protecting wilderness areas,” he says.

A management plan has been approved for Misty Peaks Reserve.

Board Chairperson Pam Richardson says the new plans highlight the “local guardianship role of the Board in approving the management of these two significant natural areas”.

“We value the input of the community, local rūnanga and the Parks team to put these plans in place, ensuring the appropriate guidelines to nurture and appreciate the natural value of both reserves,” Mrs Richardson says.

Under the new plans, the natural elements, waterways and indigenous biodiversity of the reserves will be protected and improved while historic features will be maintained and promoted.

Access by the public to enjoy the environment and walks will be supported.

Accessibility and exploration of shared improvement initiatives are among the other commitments.

Misty Peaks Reserve straddles the summit ridge above the harbour side township of Akaroa.

Its name comes from an old Māori name for the Brasenose and Flag Peak area, Ōteauheke, which means “the place where the mist comes down”.

The 500-hectare park is home to a range of native birds, lizards and fish, along with several rare or threatened plants.

Habitats range from lowland podocarp forest and beech remnants to sub-alpine snow tussock and unique rocky outcrop flora.

The Management Plan for the 900-hectare Te Oka Reserve, which rises to 680 metres, allows for sea-to-summit ecological restoration. The ridgeline track winds down to sheltered beaches in Tumbledown Bay and Te Oka Bay.

Kahikatea, matai, lowland tōtara and Halls tōtara all can be found in the reserve, along with native birds, freshwater fish and threatened plant species such as a “nationally critical” fern called Tmesipteris.