Mātuku Link Wetland Delineation

The Mātuku Link, in Te Henga/Bethells Beach and managed by the Mātuku Reserve Trust, is a wetland and forest restoration project. It covers 37 hectares and is part of the Te Henga Wetland complex – one of Auckland’s largest freshwater wetlands. This habitat hosts threatened species like the Australasian bittern, brown teal, and North Island fernbird. PDP performed a Significant Ecological Area (SEA) wetland assessment and delineation for the Mātuku Link. Under the Auckland Unitary Plan, rural landowners can earn Transferable Subdivision Titles by protecting or restoring indigenous vegetation or wetlands. These titles can be used or sold, providing a financial incentive to conserve significant habitats. Our role was to assess the wetland’s vegetation, soils, and hydrology evaluations. We measured these against five SEA criteria, which are:

Representativeness: The area supports typical indigenous plant communities.
Threat Status and Rarity: The area has threatened species and habitats.
Diversity: The area has a variety of indigenous species.
Migration Pathways and Buffers: The area links to other habitats.
Uniqueness and Distinctiveness: The area has unique features or species only in Auckland.

Using advanced digital data collection methods, our team mapped the wetland, identified areas that met Auckland Council’s SEA criteria for ecological value and habitat connections. This work supported the Mātuku Reserve Trust’s restoration efforts and the validation of Transferable Subdivision Titles, vital for funding the Trust’s and community conservation work.

PDP staff working on the wetland and forest restoration project.

Client:
Ngāti Rangiwewehi & Rotorua Lakes Council

Date of Completion:
2023

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