Hikanui Pā tree removals and revegetation

Hikanui Pā is one of two registered archaeological sites within Tainui Reserve. It sits on the middle ridgeline within the reserve and contains visible remnants of occupation, including pits and terraces.

The site has extensive exotic tree coverage, particularly macrocarpa, gum and pine.

During Cyclone Gabrielle a large number of trees failed, particularly macrocarpas and gums on the south-western flank of the ridgeline. The size of root balls pulled from the ground as trees fell caused extensive damage around the site.

In mid-2023 the site was made safe for public access with debris cleared and fallen trees removed where possible without further damaging the ground.

Arboricultural and archaeological assessments were carried out following Cyclone Gabrielle.  While the site was made safe for public access, the stand of trees is now more exposed leaving the site at risk from further tree failure, which would potentially irreversibly damage the archaeological features.

Approximately six weeks, weather dependent.

The flat grass area between Keith Sands Grove and Keirunga Road entrances will remain open during work, except when a helicopter is assisting with lifting trees. During this period the helicopter will use this area for refuelling and will be closed to the public.

Keirunga Reserve and Tanner Reserve, the closest reserves to Tainui Reserve, will be open during the works.

For the first one to two years the focus will be on indigenous replanting, starting shortly after the tree removals.  This, together with installation of geotextile matting, will help stabilise the site following the removal of the trees.  While the site will initially look bare the replanting will progress rapidly, providing improved biodiversity and a more appropriate vegetation cover for this unique site.

Council is standing up a care group to be involved in the revegetation.  If you would like to join this group, please email parks@hdc.govt.nz.

An archaeological authority is required to undertake this work, which was issued by Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga in January 2024. The works will be overseen by Archaeology Hawke’s Bay, as a requirement of the authority.

Mana whenua have been involved in the extensive planning for this site, including working with Council on the revegetation plan.