In 2002 to 2003, an ecological survey was conducted at the former Koromiko Deer Park, which is administered by Council. An ecological assessment found that the site is ecologically significant, as it is representative of the great historic forests of the alluvial flats in the valleys north of the Wairau Valley.
Koromiko Forest Reserve Ecological Report (693 Kb)
It is also the best example of valley flat treelands in the Para Ecological District, if not the wider region, and contains a nationally endangered plant, the yellow mistletoe (Alepis flavida). This reserve is now being managed as a forest reserve with a revegetation programme well underway. Since the first restoration plantings commenced in 2003, approximately 15,000 ecosourced seedlings have been planted within the reserve by local school children, community, staff and contractors, with a reduced level of ongoing propagation, planting and weed control planned. A management plan was completed in 2006 in conjunction with the QE II National Trust and the reserve was afforded QE II Covenant status. Public access along the circular walking track through the reserve will be promoted in approximately five years when the understorey plantings become established.
Contact Kiri Whiteman at Council for more information, Ph: 03 520 7400.
