restoration and vegetation management plan for taitomo ...€¦ · 5/2/2020 · restoration and...

Restoration and Vegetation Management Plan for Taitomo Reserve Piha

Prepared by Wildland Consultants Ltd. for Auckland Council

Table of Contents

Table of Contents ........................................................................................................... 2

Foreword......................................................................................................................... 5

1 Introduction .............................................................................................................. 6

2 Ecological context .................................................................................................... 6

2.1 Overview ............................................................................................................ 6

2.2 Local context ..................................................................................................... 8

3 Project vision and objectives ................................................................................... 9

4 Methods ................................................................................................................... 9

4.1 General vegetation survey ................................................................................. 9

4.2 Environmental pest plant survey ...................................................................... 10

4.3 Pest animal presence ...................................................................................... 10

4.4 Planting ............................................................................................................ 11

5 Site description and ecosystem types present ....................................................... 11

5.1 Overview .......................................................................................................... 11

5.2 Kauri-kānuka forest (Vegetation Type 1) ......................................................... 12

5.3 Pōhutukawa-pūriri-tawāpou forest (Vegetation Type 2) ................................... 12

5.4 Kānuka-mānuka forest and scrub (Vegetation Type 3).................................... 12

5.5 Mānuka-kānuka scrub (Vegetation Type 4) ..................................................... 13

5.6 Machaerina juncea sedgeland (Vegetation Type 5) ........................................ 13

5.7 Pōhutukawa forest and treeland (Vegetation Type 6) ...................................... 14

5.8 Coastal turf (Vegetation Type 7) ...................................................................... 15

5.9 Gorse shrubland (Vegetation Type 8) .............................................................. 15

6 Flora ...................................................................................................................... 18

7 Fauna .................................................................................................................... 18

7.1 Aquatic fauna ................................................................................................... 18

7.2 Avifauna ........................................................................................................... 19

7.3 Long-tailed bats ............................................................................................... 20

7.4 Herpetofauna ................................................................................................... 20

7.5 Introduced pet animals .................................................................................... 20

8 Threats to ecological values .................................................................................. 21

Restoration and Vegetation Management Plan for Taitomo Reserve, Piha 3

8.1 Pest plants ....................................................................................................... 21

8.2 Mammalian predators ...................................................................................... 21

8.3 Fire .................................................................................................................. 21

8.4 Kauri dieback ................................................................................................... 21

9 Pest plants ............................................................................................................. 22

9.1 Overview .......................................................................................................... 22

9.2 Pest plant categories ....................................................................................... 22

9.2.1 Site led control pest plants ........................................................................ 22

9.2.2 Sustained control pest plants .................................................................... 23

9.2.3 Pest plants not within the ARPMP 2019-2029 .......................................... 25

9.2.4 Other exotic plants .................................................................................... 25

10 Proposed management units and priorities for restoration .................................. 26

10.1 Overview ...................................................................................................... 26

10.1.1 Management Unit 1 ............................................................................... 26

10.1.2 Management Unit 2 ............................................................................... 27

10.1.3 Management Unit 3 ............................................................................... 27

10.1.4 Management Unit 4 ............................................................................... 28

10.1.5 Management Unit 5 ............................................................................... 28

10.1.6 Management Unit 6 ............................................................................... 28

11 Recommended pest plant control methodologies ............................................... 29

11.1 Overview ...................................................................................................... 29

11.2 Disposal of material ...................................................................................... 29

11.3 Pest plant control outcomes ......................................................................... 29

11.4 Agrichemical use, record keeping and reporting .......................................... 30

11.5 Banned flora ................................................................................................. 30

12 Pest animals ....................................................................................................... 30

12.1 Overview ...................................................................................................... 30

12.2 Recommended pest animal control methodologies ...................................... 31

12.2.1 Rodent and possum control ................................................................... 31

12.2.2 Mustelid control ...................................................................................... 31

12.2.3 Rabbit control ......................................................................................... 31

12.3 Record keeping and reporting ...................................................................... 32

13 Planting ............................................................................................................... 32

13.1.1 Overview ................................................................................................ 32

13.1.2 Planting Area (MU2) .............................................................................. 33

13.1.3 Planting Area 2 (MU4) ........................................................................... 35

13.1.4 Planting Area 3 (MU5) ........................................................................... 36

13.1.5 Planting Area 4 (MU6) ........................................................................... 36

13.2 Site preparation ............................................................................................ 38

13.3 Plant stock availability .................................................................................. 38

13.4 Plant layout and spacing .............................................................................. 38

13.5 Maintenance ................................................................................................. 39

14 Work programme, resources and timeline .......................................................... 41

Year 1 ....................................................................................................................... 41

Year 2 ....................................................................................................................... 41

Year 3 ........................................................................................................................ 42

Year 4 ........................................................................................................................ 42

Year 5 ........................................................................................................................ 42

Year 6 ........................................................................................................................ 43

Ongoing..................................................................................................................... 43

Acknowledgements ....................................................................................................... 44

References ................................................................................................................... 44

List of vascular plant species recorded at Taitomo Reserve ......................................... 45

Gymnosperms ....................................................................................................... 45

Monocot. trees and shrubs .................................................................................... 45

Dicot. trees and shrubs .......................................................................................... 45

Monocot. lianes ..................................................................................................... 46

Dicot. lianes ........................................................................................................... 46

Lycopods and psilopsids........................................................................................ 46

Ferns ..................................................................................................................... 46

Orchids .................................................................................................................. 47

Grasses ................................................................................................................. 47

Sedges .................................................................................................................. 47

Rushes .................................................................................................................. 47

Monocot. herbs (other than orchids, grasses, sedges, and rushes) ...................... 48

Composite herbs ................................................................................................... 48


Dicot. herbs (other than composites) ..................................................................... 48

NATURALISED AND EXOTIC SPECIES ..................... Error! Bookmark not defined.

Gymnosperms ....................................................................................................... 49

Dicot. trees and shrubs .......................................................................................... 49

Monocot. lianes ..................................................................................................... 49

Dicot. lianes ........................................................................................................... 49

Grasses ................................................................................................................. 49

Monocot. herbs (other than orchids, grasses, sedges, and rushes) ...................... 50

Composite herbs ................................................................................................... 50

Dicot. herbs (other than composites) ..................................................................... 50

List of environmental pest plant species recorded within Taitomo Reserve .................. 51

Foreword

Contract Report 5176

January 2020

Project Team:

Amy Nielsen - Field survey, report author Jamie MacKay - Field survey, report author Nick Goldwater – Field survey, peer review

Prepared for: Joel Chisholm

Senior Ranger Conservation - Western Regional Parks Auckland Council

Reviewed and approved for release by:

Nick Goldwater Principal Ecologist

Wildland Consultants Ltd

Wildland Consultants Ltd 2020

This report has been produced by Wildland Consultants Ltd for Auckland Council. All copyright in this report is the property of Wildland Consultants Ltd and any unauthorised publication, reproduction, or adaptation of this report is a breach of that copyright.

1 Introduction

Auckland Council, the client, has commissioned Wildland Consultants Ltd to prepare a restoration plan for 29 Te Ahuahu Rd, Piha (‘Taitomo Reserve’), a relatively new addition to the Waitakere Ranges Regional Park. The project area is approximately 80 hectares and is characterised by a mixture of mature forest, coastal scrub, indigenous sedgeland and shrubland dominated by gorse (Ulex europaeus). Concept planning for development of the reserve for visitors has been the subject of public consultation and the need for a restoration plan has been identified as a priority.

The restoration plan will provide recommendations for the restoration of indigenous bush (across the entire site), as well as a vegetation management plan for two areas damaged by arson. This plan will include recommendations for the management of pest plant and animal species within the reserve to protect indigenous flora and fauna at the site.

Recommendations for indigenous revegetation in the reserve are also provided. The plant schedules include details of the species, grades, and numbers of plants to be planted. Maps of the recommended planting areas are included.

At this stage, the Plan is intended to be a conceptual ‘living’ document, which can be adapted over time and when funding becomes available.

2 Ecological context

2.1 Overview Taitomo Reserve is located within the Waitakere Ecological District, approximately

30 kilometres southwest of central Auckland. The Waitakere Ecological District encompasses c.29,100 hectares and ranges in altitude from sea level to 474 metres. The Waitakere Range comprises the bulk of the Ecological District and contains one of the two largest blocks of continuous indigenous vegetation in the Auckland Region (c.21,000 hectares). The range is the eroded remnants of a large, ancient volcano that emerged around 23 million years ago (Lindsay et


al. 2009). Its main unifying feature is the underlying volcanic basement rocks, which are different to the parent material of surrounding ecological districts.

Vegetation in the Waitakere Range is characterised by a diverse mixture of indigenous ecosystems which, collectively, provide extensive habitat for a wide range of indigenous plant, bird, reptile, and insect species. The vegetation cover is of particular significance due to the intact sequences of vegetation from the coast through to the inland hills; the wild nature of its coastal ecosystems; and associations of wetland and dune lake systems, e.g. Anawhata and Whatipu beaches.

Māori occupation and modification of this forest was primarily around coastal sites and resulted in conversion of forest habitat to indigenous scrub and fernland. It has been suggested that early Māori fires induced kauri (Agathis australis) dominance in parts of the Waitakere Range; however, it is presumed that the rugged interior of the range was largely untouched until the arrival of Europeans (Denyer et al. 1993). In

terms of wildlife, harvesting by Māori is likely to have had significant impacts on populations of fur seal (Arctocephalus forsteri), burrowing sea birds such as petrels (Pterodroma spp.) and shearwaters (Puffinus spp.), and moa (Dinornis spp.), possibly resulting in local extinctions. In addition, the introduction of kiore (Rattus exulans) and dogs (Canis lupus familiaris) would have had devastating effects on ground-using indigenous wildlife.

Early European settlers brought profound changes to the natural areas of the Waitakere Range. Extensive areas were logged and burnt, including virtually all mature kauri forest. Other activities, such as flax (Phormium tenax) milling, gum digging, mineral extraction, quarrying, and farming, further contributed to the overall change from mature forest ecosystems to lower stature indigenous forest and scrub. In addition, damming of some catchments for Auckland’s water supply initially resulted in large-scale clearance for reservoir and dam sites. As well as changing the landscape, early Europeans facilitated the spread of many more introduced mammals, such as possums (Trichosurus vulpecula), rats (Rattus spp.), mustelids (Mustela spp.), and cats (Felis catus), all of which have wreaked havoc on indigenous wildlife.

By the 1940s, all but 2% of the Waitakere Range had been modified by commercial logging to some extent. The greatest destruction to the coastal

fringes of the Ecological District was caused by extensive forest fires, which were started to clear land for agriculture. Although 90% of the Waitakere Range has returned to indigenous vegetation, natural patterns have been altered, with most of the vegetation now forming bands of successional and regenerating forest and scrub. A few areas have remained in their original state (e.g. the Cascades Kauri Park) and from these it is possible to see what the historical vegetation patterns were once like. Pōhutukawa (Metrosideros excelsa) still survive in exposed parts of the coastline, although much coastline vegetation now consists of mānuka (Leptospermum scoparium) scrub.

2.2 Local context The eastern and southeastern-most boundaries of Taitomo Reserve border residential dwellings present along Piha and Te Ahuahu roads. The area is contiguous with similar vegetation to the north in Piha Plantation Reserve and to the south in the Waitakere Ranges Regional Park.

The reserve contains a continuous swathe of indigenous vegetation in various stages of succession that cloaks much of the surrounding area. It is located within a Significant Ecological Area (SEA_T_5539), which covers most of the Waitakere Ranges Heritage Area (WRHA). Given the size and diversity of the vegetation within the WRHA, many criteria of significance have been met, such as the presence of threatened plants, animals and ecosystems, and the provision of stepping stones and migration pathways for indigenous fauna.

Areas of indigenous vegetation within Taitomo Reserve have also been classified as Biodiversity Focus Areas within the ‘Waitakere Coastal Forest and Turf’ management unit (Management Unit ID: MU3350, MU3355, MU3356, MU3357 and MU3359) and ‘Waitakere RP Forest’ management unit (Management Unit ID: MU3422) (Auckland Council 2018).

Taitomo Reserve contains a permanent watercourse (Lovett Stream) that is deemed a Natural Stream Management Area (NSMA) under the Auckland Unitary Plan. This overlay identifies watercourses with high natural character and high ecological values. They generally have an unmodified river or stream bed with existing indigenous riparian vegetation on both sides. Lovett Stream enters the site along the eastern boundary of the site and flows in a roughly northwesterly direction through the reserve before flowing into the sea at The Gap.


3 Project vision and objectives

This plan aims to restore and enhance the ecological values present within Taitomo Reserve, following objectives outlined within the Waitakere Ranges Heritage Area Act (2008), stating the requirement to ‘protect, restore, and enhance the area and its heritage features’. Ecological values at the site are high due to the large extent of indigenous vegetation and the wide range of ecosystems present within the site. Pest plant infestations are largely confined to the burn sites and are not considered a threat to areas of mature indigenous vegetation.

The overall goal of the Ecological Management Plan is to achieve the ecological restoration of indigenous bush and the management of vegetation to reduce the risk of fire within Taitomo Reserve by controlling environmental pest plants and re- establishing appropriate indigenous species with low flammability characteristics.

The objectives of this ecological management plan are to:

• Reduce the risk of fire within the reserve by establishing indigenous species with low flammability characteristics in vegetation management areas;

• Control target pest animals within the reserve to maintain low populations of these species;

• Control priority infestations of environmental pest plants; and

• Extend plantings of indigenous species, where appropriate.

Achieving these objectives will significantly enhance the ecological values of the reserve by facilitating the natural regeneration of low flammable indigenous forest vegetation within the burn sites and improving habitat values for indigenous flora and fauna.

4 Methods

4.1 General vegetation survey The site was surveyed on 13 September 2019 during which all vegetation types were described and mapped. The current ecological values and potential areas for revegetation were assessed. All vascular plant species observed

were recorded and are presented in Appendix 1. Vegetation and habitat types were digitised onto aerial imagery using ArcGIS10.1.

4.2 Environmental pest plant survey A field survey for environmental pest plants was undertaken on 13 August 2019. Environmental pest plants are introduced species that threaten the ecological processes and values within the area where they are present. The field survey involved walking through the project area identifying and recording the location, distribution and density of all environmental pest plants encountered.

Environmental pest plant distributions and densities were mapped in the field onto hard copy prints of digital aerial photographs. The maps were then used for data input into ArcGIS 10.1 (GIS programme). The locations and distributions of each environmental pest plant species were digitised. Environmental pest plant species were labelled with their common name and a brief description of the extent of the infestation as percentage cover and overlaid on the aerial photograph.

Recommended control methodologies were prepared for each of pest plant species detected at the site. These recommendations were informed by the following factors:

• The classification of the species under the Auckland Regional Pest Management Plan 2019-2029 (Auckland Council 2019).

• The ecological values of the site in which the infestation occurs.

• The relative vulnerability of the vegetation and habitats present.

• The level of threat posed by the environmental pest plant species.

• The size of the infestation.

• The flammability of the pest plant species.

4.3 Pest animal presence While a formal survey of pest animals was not undertaken, any sign of pest animal presence was recorded during the field survey. Pest animals that were not detected but are considered likely to be present were also considered. Recommended control methods for pest animal species are provided in the report.


4.4 Planting Potential restoration planting sites and areas where planting would be advisable were identified during the field survey. These areas include sites where environmental pest plant infestations will be an ongoing problem if planting is not undertaken, and areas where fire risk is high requiring the introduction of indigenous species with low flammability characteristics.

5 Site description and ecosystem types present

5.1 Overview The project area is part of a large tract of mainly regenerating indigenous vegetation that extends across the Waitakere Ranges Regional Park. Residential properties line the eastern and southeastern-most boundaries of the site; however, substantial areas of indigenous vegetation still remain in the vicinity of the reserve. The topography of the site is defined by a broad, deep catchment that is drained by Lovett Stream. The steep slopes of the Te Ahuahu ridge demarcate the site to the south and east.

Vegetation at the reserve is broadly characterised by mature indigenous forest, regenerating scrub and shrubland (indigenous and mixed indigenous-exotic), discrete areas of exotic shrubland dominated by gorse and to a lesser degree, pampas (Cortaderia selloana), indigenous sedgeland, and small patches of coastal turf. Fires lit within the reserve in 1994, 1998 and 2017 have resulted in large areas being dominated by pest plants.

Local residents Sandra Coney and Peter Hosking have undertaken extensive revegetation planting across the northern end of the site since the 1994 fire.

Vegetation at the property can be divided into eight main types:

1. Kauri-kānuka forest 2. Pōhutukawa-pūriri-tawāpou forest 3. Kānuka-mānuka forest and scrub 4. Mānuka-kānuka scrub 5. Machaerina juncea sedgeland 6. Pōhutukawa forest and treeland 7. Coastal turf 8. Gorse shrubland

These vegetation types are described in more detail below and are illustrated in Figure 1.

5.2 Kauri-kānuka forest (Vegetation Type 1) Sloping down to the central gully from Piha Road, the eastern area of vegetation contains mature forest with locally emergent kauri over a canopy of abundant kānuka (Kunzea robusta) (Plate 1). Frequent ponga (Cyathea dealbata) and mamaku (C. medullaris) occur throughout the sub-canopy, with locally common nīkau (Rhopalostylis sapida) and kiekie (Freycinetia banksii). Tī kōuka (Cordyline australis) and rimu (Dacrydium cupressinum) are rare throughout this vegetation type.

Plate 1: Canopy of kānuka and kauri with and understorey containing ponga, mamaku and nīkau. 13 September 2019.

5.3 Pōhutukawa-pūriri-tawāpou forest (Vegetation Type 2) Mature broadleaved species occupy a steep gully on the southern side of the reserve. Pōhutukawa and pūriri (Vitex lucens) dominate the forest canopy with frequent tawāpou (Planchonella costata). Rengarenga (Arthropodium cirratum) has established on rock outcrops in this vegetation type.

5.4 Kānuka-mānuka forest and scrub (Vegetation Type 3) Indigenous scrub covers most of the reserve, extending from the southwestern corner across the gully, to the northeastern corner. This vegetation type supports a canopy of windswept kānuka and mānuka with occasional tī kōuka, harakeke (Phormium tenax), and hangehange (Geniostoma ligustrifolium) (Plate 2). Pockets of gorse are present in areas where natural regeneration is


sparse. An access driveway formerly known as ‘Byers Driveway’ cuts through the centre of this vegetation type.

Plate 2: Canopy of kānuka with an understorey containing harakeke, hangehange and gorse. 13 September 2019.

5.5 Mānuka-kānuka scrub (Vegetation Type 4) Dense indigenous scrub occurs in a gully near the Tasman lookout. Mānuka is abundant throughout the canopy with frequent kānuka. Species such as kawakawa (Piper excelsum) are locally common in the dense understorey, sheltered by more hardy species such as māhoe (Melicytus ramiflorus) and coastal karamū (Coprosma macrocarpa subsp. minor).

5.6 Machaerina juncea sedgeland (Vegetation Type 5) In the northwest corner of the reserve, discrete areas previously damaged by fire in 2017 have been colonised by Machaerina juncea sedgeland with occasional harakeke and gorse (Plate 3). Indigenous revegetation is currently underway in parts of the northern-most area of this vegetation type.

Plate 3: Machaerina juncea sedgeland across the burn site at the northern end of the reserve. 13 September 2019.

5.7 Pōhutukawa forest and treeland (Vegetation Type 6) Discrete areas of mature pōhutukawa forest and treeland occur along the coastal edge of the reserve and in the lower reaches of the central gully, surrounding the area known as ‘The Blowhole’ (Plate 4). Understorey species include frequent harakeke, coastal karamū, houpara (Pseudopanax lessonii), kawakawa, and occasional tī kōuka. Kōkihi (Tetragonia implexicoma) is locally common in the ground tier.


Plate 4: Pōhutukawa forest above ‘The Blowhole’. 13 September 2019.

5.8 Coastal turf (Vegetation Type 7) Coastal turf is present on a flat platform above steep coastal cliffs bounding the southern edge of the reserve. This area was not included in the survey as is outside of the project scope. A vegetation survey of the coastal turf was undertaken by Auckland Council in 2015 and identified Zoysia minima within the area, a diminutive grass species classified as ‘At Risk-Declining’.

5.9 Gorse shrubland (Vegetation Type 8)

Low-stature gorse is present in two areas burnt by the 2017 fire. The northern-most area of exotic scrub has been partially planted by neighbouring landowners and Auckland Council, and includes species such as harakeke, tī kōuka and karo (Pittosporum crassifolium). Little natural regeneration has occurred in southern-most area of exotic scrub where gorse is abundant with pampas scattered throughout (Plate 5).

Plate 5: Low-stature gorse is abundant at one of the burn sites. 13 September 2019.

6 Flora

One hundred and four indigenous and 33 exotic plant species were recorded during the site survey (Appendix 1). Three ‘At Risk’ plant species were recorded during the survey: Pimelea longifolia (At Risk-Declining), Veronica obtusata (At Risk-Naturally Uncommon), and Celmisia major var. major (At Risk-Naturally Uncommon). Zoysia minima has been recorded within the area of coastal turf, a species classified as ‘At Risk-Declining’. An additional three species - aka (Metrosideros diffusa), kānuka, and kauri have recently been classified as ‘Threatened-Nationally Vulnerable’ by de Lange et al. (2018), while one species - mānuka – has recently been classified as ‘At Risk-Declining’. This is a precautionary measure due to the threat that myrtle rust (Austopuccinia australis) poses to plant species in the myrtle family.

7 Fauna

7.1 Aquatic fauna A search of the New Zealand Freshwater Fish Database (NIWA 2019) for aquatic fauna records in the Piha area revealed nine freshwater fish species, including two species classified as ‘Threatened Nationally Vulnerable’ and three species classified as ‘At Risk-Declining’ (Dunn et al. 2018). There are also records of two crustacean species from Piha Stream - koura (Paranephrops planifrons) and freshwater shrimp (Paratya curvirostris) - although these species are highly likely to present throughout the wider catchment. There are no records from Lovett Stream (within Taitomo Reserve); however, given its unmodified state and very high water quality, this stream is likely to support a range of indigenous fish and invertebrate species. Aquatic fauna records are presented in Table 1 below.


Table 1: Freshwater fauna recorded within the Piha locality (NIWA 2019).

Stream Name Species Name Common Name Threat Classification Ussher Stream

Anguilla australis Shortfin eel Not Threatened Galaxias fasciatus Banded kōkopu Not Threatened

Glen Esk Stream

Anguilla australis Shortfin eel Not Threatened Anguilla dieffenbachii Longfin eel At Risk-Declining Cheimarrichthys fosteri Torrentfish At Risk-Declining Galaxias brevipinnis Kōaro At Risk-Declining Galaxias fasciatus Banded kōkopu Not Threatened Galaxias maculatus Inanga At Risk-Declining Galaxias postvectis Shortjaw kōkopu Threatened Nationally

Vulnerable Gobiomorphus huttoni Redfin bully Not Threatened

Piha Stream Anguilla australis Shortfin eel Not Threatened Anguilla dieffenbachii Longfin eel At Risk-Declining Galaxias fasciatus Banded kōkopu Not Threatened Galaxias maculatus Inanga At Risk-Declining Geotria australis Lamprey Threatened-Nationally

Vulnerable Gobiomorphus cotidianus Common bully Not Threatened Gobiomorphus huttoni Redfin bully Not Threatened Paranephrops planifrons Kōura Not Threatened Paratya curvirostris Freshwater shrimp Not Threatened

7.2 Avifauna Eight indigenous and five exotic bird species were seen or heard at the study site during the survey. Indigenous species included welcome swallow (Hirundo neoxena), grey warbler (Gerygone igata), tūī (Prosthemadera novaeseelandiae), silver eye (Zosterops lateralis), kererū (Hemiphaga novaeseelandiae), kōtare (Todiramphus sanctus), red-billed gull (Larus novaehollandiae scopulinus), and black-backed gull (L. dominicanus). Red-billed gull has a threat ranking of ‘At Risk-Declining’ as per Robertson et al. (2017).

Kororā (Eudyptula minor), classified as ‘At Risk’, have been seen within burrows across the reserve and grey-faced petrel (Pterodroma macroptera) are known to nest within 59 Rayner Road, adjacent to Taitomo.

The five exotic bird species observed at the site include common myna (Acridotheres tristis), common starling (Sturnus vulgaris), Eurasian skylark (Alauda arvensis), Eurasian blackbird (Turdus merula), and chaffinch (Fringilla coelebs).

7.3 Long-tailed bats Long-tailed bats (Chalinolobus tuberculatus) occur in the Auckland Region and are classified as ‘Threatened-Nationally Critical’ by O’Donnell et al. (2018). They are known to favour forest edge and riparian habitats of both indigenous and exotic forest types, having adapted to exotic tree species such as pine (Pinus sp.) and macrocarpa (Cupressus macrocarpa). There are mature trees in the reserve such as pūriri and pōhutukawa, which provide potential bat roosting habitat, while the central stream provides a suitable foraging corridor. Long-tailed bats have previously been recorded in 2015 near to Whatipu and Te Henga (both c.7 kilometres from the site), which places Taitomo Reserve within the home range of the species. Surveys undertaken in 2015 and 2016 on Karekare Road (within c.3 kilometres of the site) did not detect long-tailed bats; however, no surveys appear to have been undertaken in Piha despite the presence of suitable foraging and roosting habitat in the area.

7.4 Herpetofauna Indigenous scrub and shrubland, together with exotic vegetation such as pampas, provide excellent potential habitat for indigenous lizards, including species such as elegant gecko (Naultinus elegans), copper skink (Oligosoma aeneum), shore skink (O. smithi), forest gecko (Mokopirirakau granulatus), and Pacific gecko (Dactylocnemis pacificus), most of which are classified as ‘At Risk’ by Hitchmough et al. (2016). It is possible, although less likely, that Hochstetter's Frog (Leiopelma hochstetteri) is present in Lovetts Stream and its tributaries. This species is classified as ‘At Risk-Declining’ by Newman et al. (2013). All aforementioned lizard and frog species have been recorded in similar habitat within 10 kilometres of Taitomo Reserve. Wildland Consultants recently recorded 11 elegant geckos from one residence in Log Race Road, which bounds the reserve to the south (Wildland Consultants Ltd 2017).Plague skink (Lampropholis delicata) is likely to be present in the reserve, given it has been observed in similar habitat elsewhere in Piha (N. Goldwater, pers. obs.). This introduced species is classified as an ‘Unwanted Organism’ under the Biosecurity Act (1993).

7.5 Introduced pet animals Pest animals likely to be present within the reserve include brush-tailed possum, ship rat (Rattus rattus), Norway rat (R. norvegicus), house mouse (Mus musculus), and hedgehog (Erinaceus europaeus). Mustelids (stoats, Mustela erminea; ferrets,

M. furo; and weasels, M. nivalis vulgaris) and feral and domestic cats (Felis catus) area also likely to utilise the site occasionally.


8 Threats to ecological values

8.1 Pest plants Pest plants listed under the Auckland Regional Pest Management Plan for this area occur in small patches along the margins of the mature forest at the site and are currently having no appreciable impact on the ecological value of the main section of mature bush. The most abundant pest plant species are light-demanding species such as pampas and gorse, which largely dominate areas previously affected by fire. These species are likely to be hindering the regeneration and establishment of indigenous species. Climbing asparagus (Asparagus scandens) is an issue throughout the reserve having invaded forest margins of the mature bush and being found throughout areas of gorse.

Horses are often ridden within the reserve, sometimes off established tracks, which can facilitate the spread of pest plants and other exotic species.

8.2 Mammalian predators Kororā are likely to use the site for nesting burrows and grey-faced petrel may frequent the site. Taitomo Reserve also contains suitable habitat for fernbird (Bowdleria punctata). All of these birds are highly susceptible to mammalian predators including cats, rats, and ferrets as well as wandering dogs (Canis lupus familiaris)1. Indigenous lizard species are also highly vulnerable to predation by cats, mustelids, rats, and hedgehogs.

8.3 Fire Large areas of highly flammable pest plants such as gorse and pampas within Taitomo Reserve pose a high fire risk. Establishment of indigenous species with low flammability characteristics in these areas and maintaining access ways as firebreaks would help to lower the future fire risk.

8.4 Kauri dieback Taitomo Reserve contains a high value kauri ecosystem. Several large mature kauri trees occur in a stand along the eastern slope of the reserve. All contractors working at the site should use approved standard operating procedures to ensure they do not accidentally introduce kauri dieback.

9 Pest plants

9.1 Overview Eighteen pest plant species that are listed in the Auckland Regional Pest Management Plan (ARPMP; Auckland Council 2019) were recorded at Taitomo Reserve. A further two pest plant species were identified that are not listed in the ARPMP, but for which control is recommended. In addition to the control of pest plants, one species of non- invasive exotic plant should be removed as it is not ecologically appropriate for the area. A map of the distribution and abundance of the plant species to be controlled is provided in Figure 2.

The plant species for which control or removal is recommended have been assigned to one of the following categories:

• Site led pest plants on parks and reserves throughout the Auckland Region as per the ARPMP.

• Sustained control pest plants throughout the Auckland Region as per the ARPMP.

• Pest plants subject to the ‘Good Neighbour Rule’ throughout the Auckland Region as per the ARPMP.

• Pest plants that are not currently included in the ARPMP, but for which control is recommended.

• Exotic plant species which are not considered to be pests, but for which removal is recommended.

A full list of species for which control or removal is recommended is provided in Appendix 2.

9.2 Pest plant categories

9.2.1 Site led control pest plants Under the ARPMP some pest plant species have been highlighted as requiring site led control within parks and reserves. These species are all known to have negative effects on indigenous ecosystems and in some cases can cause canopy collapse (Auckland Council 2019).


Six of the pest plants recorded at Taitomo Reserve have been identified as Site led control species (Table 2). Some of these species are also subject to a ‘Good Neighbour Rule’ that required Auckland Council and/or the affected land occupiers to carry out control within a 500 metre wide buffer zone around areas of parkland (Table 2).

Table 2: Site led pest plants recorded at Taitomo Reserve.

Common Name Species Name ARPMP Good Neighbour Rules and responsibilities

Agapanthus

Agapanthus praecox

Rule 7.5.2.1.1: All occupiers of any transport corridor land that is located within the buffer area, of any park which is managed for Agapanthus, must control all agapanthus on that land prior to seed set.

Transport corridor occupier responsible for control.

Aristea Aristea ecklonii N/A

Climbing asparagus

Asparagus scandens

Rule 7.5.2.3.1: All occupiers of any land that is located within the buffer area of a park which is managed for climbing asparagus and where Auckland Council has undertaken initial destruction of climbing asparagus on that land must undertake follow up destruction of all climbing asparagus on that land.

Auckland Council responsible for control. Land occupier responsible preventing reestablishment.

Formosa lily

Lilium formosanum

Rule 7.5.2.5.1: All occupiers of any transport corridor land that is located within the buffer area of a park which is managed for formosa lily must control all formosa lily on that land prior to seed set.

Transport corridor occupier responsible for control.

Pampas grass Cortaderia jubata and C. selloana N/A

Wild ginger

Hedychium gardnerianum

7.5.2.10.1 All occupiers of any land that is located within the buffer area, as defined in of a park which is managed for wild ginger, must destroy all wild ginger on that land. Land occupier responsible for control.

9.2.2 Sustained control pest plants

Sustained control pest plants include species that have been identified as having the potential to negatively impact environmental and economic values across the entire Auckland Region. Twelve sustained control pest plants were recorded during the field survey and are listed in Table 3.

Under the ARPMP all Sustained Control Pest Plants are subject to the following rules:

• Rule 7.7.10.1.1: No person shall cause to breed any Sustained Control Pest Plant within the Auckland region.

• Rule 7.7.10.1.2: No person shall distribute or release (or cause to be released or distributed), any Sustained Control Pest Plant within the Auckland region.

• Rule 7.7.10.1.3: No person shall sell or offer for sale any Sustained Control Pest Plant within the Auckland.

• Rule 7.7.10.1.4: No person may plant or allow to be planted any Sustained Control Pest Plant (specified below) on or in any land within the Auckland region.

• Rule 7.7.10.1.5: Despite rule 7.7.10.1.4, a person may transfer or allow to be transferred an existing Sustained Control Pest Plant planted on their land from one location to another location within the boundaries of the same property. This exception does not apply to the following freshwater pest plants: alligator weed, bladderwort, Chilean rhubarb, eel grass, egeria, hornwort, giant reed, lagarosiphon, parrot’s feather, reed sweetgrass, and water primrose.

• Rule 7.7.10.1.6: All occupiers of land in the Auckland region must destroy any Sustained Control Pest Plant that has been planted on their land in breach of the RPMP, if directed to do so by an authorised person.

Gorse is also subject to a Good Neighbour Rule that requires the land occupier to control gorse on the property boundary if the adjacent land is used for primary production and the neighbouring resident is carrying out gorse control.


Common Name Species Name ARPMP Good Neighbour Rules and responsibilities

Arum lily Zantedeschia aethiopica N/A Bamboo species Phyllostachys aurea N/A

Banana passionfruit

Passiflora tripartita var. mollissima, P. mixta and P. tarminiana

N/A

Brush wattle Paraserianthes lophantha N/A Climbing dock Rumex sagittatus N/A

Cotoneaster Cotoneaster glaucophyllus and C. franchetii N/A

German ivy Delairea odorata N/A

Gorse

Ulex spp.

Rule 7.7.10.1.8: All occupiers of any land that is located within rural Auckland (Occupier A) must destroy all gorse plants on that land within 10m of any property boundary that is adjacent to land being used for commercial primary production (Occupier B) and where that land occupier (Occupier B) is destroying all gorse on that land. Land occupier responsible for control.

Hakea Hakea spp. N/A Mile-a-minute Dipogon lignosus N/A Tradescantia Tradescantia fluminensis N/A Tree lupin Lupinus arboreus N/A

Table 3: Sustained control pest plants recorded at Taitomo Reserve.

9.2.3 Pest plants not within the ARPMP 2019-2029 Two pest plant species observed at Taitomo Reserve that are not identified in the ARPMP (Table 4). Although these species are not within the ARPMP, they are considered to be having a detrimental impact on the ecology at the site and may spread

further if not controlled. As such, it is recommended that control of all the non- ARPMP pest plant species observed at Taitomo Reserve be controlled within the entire site.

9.2.4 Other exotic plants

Radiata pine (Pinus radiata) was identified within mature forest at the eastern end of the reserve and should be controlled. While this species is not considered to be impacting the ecology of the site, it should be controlled as it has the ability to invade disturbed areas and out-compete other indigenous species. It is also a relatively flammable species, so its control would lower the risk of fire at the reserve. When this takes place, it will be important to consider the possible effects of this work on long- tailed bats (if present). In the meantime, the control of young wilding pines with a diameter at breast

height (DBH) of <10 centimetres is recommended. Trees with a DBH <10 centimetres are not likely to provide high quality roosting habitat for long- tailed bats.

10 Proposed management units and priorities for restoration

10.1 Overview Six management units (MU) have been identified at the reserve in which actions such as pest animal control and monitoring, pest plant control, and planting should be undertaken (Figure 2). These management units have largely been defined by the extent of pest plant control and planting required.

Key priorities within the management units include:

• Control all environmental pest plant species.

• Revegetating MUs 2, 4, 5 and 6 with low flammability indigenous species, including areas previously damaged by fire.

• Maintain and expand populations of Veronica obtusata, Pimelea longifolia and Celmisia major var. major in MU1a.

• Continue pest animal control across the reserve.

10.1.1 Management Unit 1

Management Unit 1 comprises areas of the reserve dominated by indigenous forest and scrub. It has been split into three sub-units (a-c), which are outlined below together with proposed management actions.

Management Unit Proposed Management Actions

MU1a Comprises the mature indigenous vegetation lining the central gully (Vegetation Types 1, 2, 3 and 6) and smaller areas of indigenous sedgeland and coastal turf (Vegetation Types 5 & 7).

Proposed Actions: - Prioritise gorse and pampas control (to at least 3 metres) along track

edges, removing cut vegetation to lower fire risk. - Control local infestations of banana passionfruit, climbing asparagus,

climbing dock, Formosan lily, gorse, kahili ginger, mile-a-minute, and walking stick bamboo.

- Re-assess the need for revegetation planting in areas of control. - Continue pest animal control. - Control of mature radiata pines after assessing potential adverse effects

on long-tailed bats. - Maintain and expand populations of Veronica obtusata, Pimelea

longifolia and Celmisia major var. major.


MU1b Comprises a sub-unit of kānuka scrub in the northeastern corner of the reserve (Vegetation Type 3).

Proposed Actions: - Control pampas to prevent spread into adjacent planting areas. - Enhancement planting of mature-phase species if required.

MU1c Comprises indigenous vegetation that occurs on the cliff face and the adjacent mānuka scrub (Vegetation Types 4 & 6) at the northern end of the site.

Proposed Actions: - Control pampas to prevent spread into adjacent planting areas. - Staged control of agapanthus together with indigenous infill planting to

prevent future spread. - Enhancement planting of mature-phase species if required.

10.1.2 Management Unit 2 Management

Unit Proposed Management Actions

MU2 Comprises regenerating kānuka scrub along the walking track in the northeastern corner of the site (Vegetation Type 3). Gorse and pampas occur at higher quantities compared to other areas of indigenous scrub.

Proposed Actions: - Prioritise gorse and pampas control (to at least 3 metres) along track

edges, removing cut vegetation to lower fire risk. - Staged control of gorse together with revegetation planting to establish

low flammability indigenous species across areas previously damaged by fire. It is acknowledged that planting may need to be staged over a few years depending on availability of plants and funding.

- Monitor planting progress using permanent photopoints. - Control pampas, agapanthus, aristea, climbing asparagus, cotoneaster,

Formosan lily, inkweed, kahili ginger, and prickly hakea within the MU. - Undertake pest animal control, noting that rodent numbers are likely to

increase once the plantings establish and begin fruiting. - Initiate rabbit control to reduce grazing on young plants.



MU3 Includes the parking area at the northern entrance to the site from Piha Road and surrounding vegetation. Dumping of garden waste is evident in this area, which has resulted in the establishment of small, localised pest plant infestations.

Proposed Actions: - Install signage regarding penalties for dumping of garden waste on

Auckland Council property. - Monitor area for illegal dumping, allowing for efficient control of

potential pest plants. - Control infestations of arum lily, garden nasturtium, German ivy, gorse,

and tradescantia.



MU4 Large area previously damaged by fire now reverted to Machaerina juncea sedgeland (Vegetation Type 5) with restricted areas of indigenous planting.

Proposed Actions: - Spot control of low-lying gorse using manual removal or chemical

application, where appropriate. - Control climbing asparagus infestations. - Plant entire sub-unit in order to establish low flammability indigenous

species across areas previously damaged by fire. It is acknowledged that planting may need to be staged over a few years, depending on availability of plants and funding.

- Control outlier infestations of gorse and pampas. - Initiate rabbit control to reduce grazing on young plants.



MU5 Large area previously damaged by fire which now comprises dense low- stature gorse (Vegetation Type 8). Proposed Actions: - Staged control of gorse together with revegetation planting to plant the

entire sub-unit and establish low flammability indigenous species across areas previously damaged by fire. It is acknowledged that planting may need to be staged over a few years depending on availability of plants and funding.

- Control infestations of pampas and climbing asparagus. - Initiate rabbit control to reduce grazing on young plants.



MU6 Small area of mixed indigenous planting and exotic scrub (Vegetation Type 8) below the Tasman lookout, previously damaged by fire. Proposed Actions: - Prioritise gorse and pampas control to at least 3 metres along track

edges, removing cut vegetation to lower fire risk. - Staged control of gorse together with revegetation planting to establish

low flammability indigenous species. Establishing indigenous vegetation alongside tracks should be the highest priority in order to reduce fire risk.


11 Recommended pest plant control methodologies

11.1 Overview Sparse infestations of fire-prone species such as gorse along track edges and property boundaries should be controlled in the short-term. Large areas of gorse requiring planting after removal should be controlled when resources and plant stock are available.

Recommended control methods for all pest plant species and exotic species recorded at the site are presented in Appendix 3. Repeated treatment rounds will be required to achieve full control of some species, particularly those with large tubers or bulbs (e.g. Formosan lily). The recommended timing of treatment rounds is provided in Section 14.

Large infestations of gorse, pampas and climbing asparagus are present within the neighbouring South Piha Plantation Reserve, northeast of the site. It is recommended that control also be undertaken within South Piha Plantation Reserve to prevent future invasion into Taitomo Reserve and the surrounding area.

11.2 Disposal of material All environmental pest plant infestations can be dealt with in situ, removing the need for disposal. The seedlings of many pest plant species (e.g. brush wattle) can be controlled by hand-pulling and may be left to rot on site. It is essential that plant seeds, tubers, and fragments are not dispersed from the current infestation areas as some species can easily be spread by seed or fragments species (e.g. tradescantia). Where cut vegetation is to be left on site, seed heads should be removed wherever possible and disposed of carefully to avoid new infestations establishing.

11.3 Pest plant control outcomes No mature, flowering or fruiting pest plants or exotic ground cover species should be remaining in the planting areas prior to planting work being carried out. Areas of mature indigenous forest and scrub should also contain no mature, flowering or fruiting pest plants by the end of the first year of control. After this stage ongoing maintenance should be carried out in order to keep the planting areas and mature indigenous forest and scrub free of pest plants in perpetuity. All newly established pest plants, regrowth of unsuccessfully controlled pest plants and plants that are hindering the growth of indigenous

plantings, should be controlled during regular maintenance visits. See Section 14 for the recommended frequency and timing of maintenance work.

11.4 Agrichemical use, record keeping and reporting All environmental pest plant control operations should be undertaken by “Growsafe” certified operators, in line with the Agrichemical Users’ Code of Practice (NZS 8409 2004: The Management of Agrichemicals) and industry best practice. This includes recording and maintaining records of all agrichemical usage on appropriate spray record sheets.

Reports summarising the pest plant control work undertaken during each year of the programme should be generated on an annual basis. This report should include, but is not limited to:

• Chemical application method.

• Start and finish time of application.

• Concentration, volume, brand name and active ingredient of herbicides used.

• The timing of pest plant control rounds.

• Weather conditions during control rounds.

• Pest plant species controlled.

• The results/effectiveness of the control.

• Recommendations for pest plant control priorities for the following year

11.5 Banned flora Potentially invasive exotic species should not be planted in Taitomo Reserve. This includes any species listed in the ARPMP, in the National Pest Plant Accord or on the weedbusters.org.nz website.

12 Pest animals

12.1 Overview Pest animal control is required in order to enhance the ecological integrity of Taitomo Reserve and protect indigenous fauna and revegetation efforts.

Possums, ship rats, Norway rats (R. norvegicus), mice (Mus musculus), hedgehogs, and mustelids are likely to be present at the site. In addition, cats


(both feral and domestic) may use the site occasionally. Possums, rats, and mice adversely impact vegetation health by browsing foliage and eating the seeds of indigenous plants. All mammalian pests are likely to reduce the fauna values of Taitomo Reserve through predation and competition.

Rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) are also present in the reserve and have the potential to hinder the establishment of indigenous revegetation plantings through browsing foliage and damaging root balls.

12.2 Recommended pest animal control methodologies

12.2.1 Rodent and possum control A loop of 15 Philproof bait stations has been installed within the main section of mature bush (MU1a), following the valley floor. Philproof stations are also present along the Tasman Lookout track. These bait stations can be used to control rats and possums.

Bait stations should be activated for four control pulses per year at three monthly intervals. All bait stations should be filled with a pellet bait formulation containing brodifacoum as the active ingredient. Bait stations should be checked and refilled weekly for four weeks. At the end of the four week period all bait should be removed and disposed of responsibly.

Cholecalciferol could also be used in conjunction with brodifacoum to control possum populations across the reserve.

12.2.2 Mustelid control

DOC200 traps have been installed along the Tasman Lookout track as well as on neighboring private property north of Taitomo Reserve. These traps can be moved around within the site to areas that stoats are likely to occur. This includes along ridges, tracks and streams, or anywhere that is easy to access. Each trap should be baited with a chicken egg or dried rabbit meat and checked, cleared, re-baited and reset every month. Additional DOC200 traps could be installed in areas where seabirdburrows and nests are present to provide extra protection to vulnerable eggs and chicks.

12.2.3 Rabbit control

Rabbit control should be undertaken if they are abundant in and around the planting area prior to planting, or if damage to the new plants is detected.

Rabbits can be controlled using Pindone bait pellets. If the person carrying out the control work holds a Controlled Substance License (CSL), broadcasting of bait pellets or carrots laced with liquid Pindone is the most effective way of controlling rabbits. However, if someone with a CSL is not available multi-feeder bait stations should be used to contain bait pellets.

The recommend rate of Pindone application is between 2-3 kilograms in each bait station. This should provide enough bait to last two days, which should allow all potential rabbits within the treatment area to feed from the station. After 10-15 days, areas should be checked for signs of rabbits and treated again if required. Bait stations should be distributed throughout the area where rabbit sign is evident.

12.3 Record keeping and reporting Records of all pest animal control operations should be maintained in line with industry best practice. A summary of the pest animal control work undertaken during each year of the programme should be generated on an annual basis. This includes, but is not limited to:

• A plan showing the approximate locations of bait stations, traps, and signage;

• Timing of control rounds;

• Weather conditions during control rounds;

• Number of bait stations used, and amount of bait take;

• Number of traps installed, and number and species of animals caught; and

• A record of correspondence (if any) regarding the pest animal control operation.

13 Planting

13.1.1 Overview

Four planting areas have been identified in Taitomo Reserve, and occur in Management Units 2, 4, 5 and 6 (Figure 2).

Two plantings areas (MUs 2 and 6) will be partially planted to assist natural regeneration in the area, while the remaining two areas (MUs 4 and 5) contain little to no natural regeneration and will require more comprehensive revegetation planting.


All planting work within these areas should follow the plant schedules provided below (Table -9) and the timeline presented in Section 14.

13.1.2 Planting Area (MU2)

Planting area one encompasses regenerating kānuka scrub with scattered broadleaved species along a walking track in the northeastern corner of the site. Gorse and pampas are common amongst indigenous species, supressing natural regeneration in some areas (Plate 6). The current extent of highly flammable pest plants in this area present a high fire risk. It is therefore recommended that the staged removal of gorse and pampas be undertaken alongside enhancement planting to rapidly establish indigenous species with low flammability characteristics.

Small gaps (c.3 x 3 metres) should be cleared in the gorse using a chainsaw or scrub bar and the stumps treated, preferably in early autumn to reduce the risk of fire. Felled material should be moved away from walking tracks and left on site to rot. The gaps should be spaced at regular intervals (10-15 metres apart) throughout the planting area and should be large enough to accommodate one mature phase indigenous plant (e.g. pōhutukawa, pūriri) or up to eight smaller shrub species (e.g. coastal karamū, harakeke). This will allow indigenous plantings to establish in the sheltered environment provided by the surrounding gorse. Over time these plants will overtop the gorse and form a dominant indigenous canopy. The resulting shade will facilitate the regeneration of indigenous plant species whilst also preventing the reinvasion of gorse and other light-demanding exotic plants.

Plate 6: Pampas amongst regenerating indigenous vegetation (Planting Area 1 / MU2). 13 September 2019.

The plant schedule for Planting Area 1 is provided in Table 6, and has allowed for existing indigenous plants.

Table 6: Indicative planting schedule for Planting Area 1 based on creating 250 3 ×

3 metre gaps (c.2,250 m2).

Species Common Name Grade Spacing (m) % of Mix Number

Coprosma macrocarpa coastal karamū RT 2 15 150 Melicytus ramiflorus māhoe RT 2 20 200 Phormium tenax harakeke RT 2 20 200 Pseudopanax arboreus five-finger RT 2 15 150 Pittosporum crassifolium karo RT 2 17.5 175 Metrosideros excelsa* pōhutukawa 2L 5-10 10 100 Vitex lucens pūriri 2L 5-10 2.5 25 Total 1,000

* Auckland Council does not recommend planting pōhutukawa over the next two years as young trees are particularly vulnerable to myrtle rust (Austropuccinia psidii). Planting pōhutukawa may become appropriate in future plantings.


13.1.3 Planting Area 2 (MU4)

Planting Area 2 encompasses an exposed coastal slope that was damaged in the 2017 fire, and now supports Machaerina juncea sedgeland (Plate 7). Limited planting has recently been undertaken in discrete areas of the sedgeland; however, planting is still required at a wider scale. It is recommended that revegetation planting occur across the area to establish a canopy of low flammability indigenous species. It is recommended seedlings are planted into the Machaerina juncea and alongside gorse to provide shelter from strong coastal winds.

Planting this area offers a great opportunity for community involvement due to the easy access to the site and limited amount of site preparation required.

Plate 7: Looking west across an area of recent planting within a patch of cleared gorse (MU4). Grid reference: E1730514 N5908420.

Bearing: 245°. Date: 13 September 2019.

The plant schedule for Planting Area 2 is provided in Table 7.

Species Common Name Grade Spacing

(m) % of Mix Number

Coprosma macrocarpa coastal karamū RT 2 15 1,500

Melicytus ramiflorus māhoe RT 2 15 1,125 Phormium tenax harakeke RT 2 20 1,500 Pseudopanax lessonii houpara RT 2 20 1,500 Pittosporum crassifolium karo RT 2 15 1,125 Metrosideros excelsa* pōhutukawa 2L 5-10 15 750 Total 7,500


Planting Area 3 encompasses exposed coastal slopes above the Machaerina juncea sedgeland (MU4), which was also damaged in the 2017 fire. This area is now characterised by dense low-stature gorse with scattered pampas (Plate 5). Indigenous species are uncommon in this area and, in the absence of management, the risk of fire occurring again is considered to be high. It is recommended that a similar approach is adopted as for Planting Area 1; however, given the relatively low height of the gorse in this area, a greater proportion could be mechanically removed prior to planting low flammability indigenous species.

It is recommended that a series of transects are established throughout the site, which can be used to create and access gaps (3 × 3 metres). The plant schedule for Planting Area 3 is provided in Table 8.

Table 8: Planting schedule for Planting Area 3 (c.17,123 m2).


Coprosma macrocarpa coastal karamū RT 2 15 645 Melicytus ramiflorus māhoe RT 2 15 645 Phormium tenax harakeke RT 2 20 860 Pseudopanax lessonii houpara RT 2 20 860 Pittosporum crassifolium karo RT 2 15 645 Metrosideros excelsa* pōhutukawa 2L 5-10 15 645 Total 4,300


Planting Area 4 includes a small area of mixed indigenous planting and exotic scrub below the Tasman lookout, an area known as the Tasman and Gap Lookouts Special Management Zone (Plate 8), as well as patches of gorse


present along the Tasman Lookout track. Neighbouring landowners have attempted to re-establish indigenous vegetation in this area and has succeeded in establishing plantings across the eastern side of the area, with most of the gorse now confined to the coastal edge.

It is recommended that additional revegetation planting is undertaken with low flammability indigenous species in order to suppress gorse and other light-demanding exotic species. Given the relatively small area of planting across the Tasman and Gap Lookouts Special Management Zone, all gorse in this area could feasibly be removed mechanically prior to planting, and discrete patches of exotic grass could be sprayed. Dense gorse along the Tasman lookout track should be gradually cleared in small gaps (c.3 × 3 metres) using a chainsaw or scrub bar and indigenous plantings established in these gaps.

Plate 8: Looking north across an area of gorse within the Tasman and Gap Lookouts Special Management Zone. Grid reference: E1730460 N5908610. Bearing: 32°. Date: 13 September 2019.

The plant schedule for Planting Area 4 is provided in Table 9, and has allowed for existing indigenous plants. A possible upgrade to the Tasman Lookout track would require the plant numbers to be revisited.

Table 9: Plant schedule for Planting Area 4 (c.3,990 m2).


Coprosma macrocarpa coastal karamū RT 2 15 150 Melicytus ramiflorus māhoe RT 2 15 150 Phormium tenax harakeke RT 2 20 200 Pseudopanax lessonii houpara RT 2 20 200 Pittosporum crassifolium karo RT 2 15 150 Metrosideros excelsa* pōhutukawa 2L 5-10 15 150 Total 1,000

13.2 Site preparation Appropriate site preparation is essential to the success of indigenous revegetation plantings. All environmental pest plants should be controlled within the planting areas (as per Section 11 above). In addition, all non-invasive exotic grasses and herbaceous plants should also be blanket sprayed with a Glyphosate-based herbicide before planting work is carried out. Note that exotic grasses and herbs may need to be sprayed in areas where gorse has been mechanically controlled. Site preparation in Planting Area 2 should be restricted to spot spraying amongst the Machaerina juncea sedgeland and manual removal of gorse. Given the relative sparseness of the sedgeland - and the fact that it will not compete with new plantings - broadcast spraying is not required.

13.3 Plant stock availability All plants should be sourced from the Waitakere Ecological District, in line with Auckland Council’s eco-sourcing Code of Practice. To ensure availability, the plant stock should be ordered as far in advance as possible, especially for slower-growing species required in larger grades (e.g. pōhutukawa). Given the exposed nature of the planting sites, it is recommended that plant stock is raised from local seed sources (i.e. Piha-Karekare area).

13.4 Plant layout and spacing In general, most shrub and smaller tree species should be planted at 2 metre centres given that sward-forming exotic grass species such as kikuyu (Cenchrus clandestinus) are largely absent from the site. Larger growing species (e.g. pōhutukawa) should be planted further apart at approximately 5-


10 metre centres, while maintaining an overall coverage of 2 metre spacing between all plants.

13.5 Maintenance Planted areas should be inspected at least three times during the first two years following planting. During these visits, plants should be released from exotic vegetation to ensure they are able to receive sufficient sunlight to thrive. As the plants becomes established, they will be begin to out compete other exotic species and the frequency of releasing will decrease. Due to the exposed coastal conditions, releasing plants will be necessary for 5-10 years after planting, depending on growth rates.

Limited infill planting1 may be required during the next planting season depending on plant survival over the first summer. Infill plants should be of the same grade as those used in the initial planting. The number and species of infill plants should be identified in the February or March proceeding the infill planting season.

Species selection and site preparation techniques should be re-assessed for future plantings if areas exhibit lower than expected plant survival.

14 Work programme, resources and timeline

The recommended work programmes for pest plant control, pest animal control and planting work is provided below. Timing is based on the Auckland Council financial year of 1 July to 30 June

Year 1

Task Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Order plants Establish transects and create gaps for planting (MU2 and MU5) Site Preparation (MU2) Planting (MU2) Initial pest plant control (MU1 and MU3) Pest animal control

Year 2

Task Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Partial Site Preparation (MU4) Partial Planting (MU4) Infill planting (if required) (MU2) Initial pest plant control (MUs 2, 4, 5 and 6) Follow up pest plant control (MU1 and MU3) Monitoring of planting and releasing where necessary (MU2) Pest animal control Annual Report

Year 3

Task Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Complete Site Preparation (MU4) Complete Planting (MU4) Infill planting (if required) (MU4) Follow up pest plant control (MU1 - 6) Monitoring of planting and releasing where necessary (MU2 & MU4) Pest animal control Annual Report

Year 4

Task Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Partial Site Preparation (MU5) Partial Planting (MU5) Infill planting (if required) (MU4) Follow up pest plant control (MU1 – 6) Monitoring of planting and releasing where necessary (MU2 & MU4) Pest animal control Annual Report

Year 5

Task Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Complete Site Preparation (MU5) Complete Planting (MU5) Infill planting (if required) (MU5) Follow up pest plant control (MU1 – 6) Monitoring of planting and releasing where necessary (MU4 & MU5) Pest animal control Annual Report

Year 6

Task Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Site Preparation (MU6) Planting (MU6) Infill planting (if required) (MU5) Follow up pest plant control Monitoring of planting and releasing where necessary (MU4 & MU5) Pest animal control Annual Report

Ongoing

Task Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Infill planting (if required) Follow up pest plant control (MU1 – 6) Monitoring of planting and releasing where necessary Pest animal control Annual Report

44 Restoration and Vegetation Management Plan for Taitomo Reserve, Piha

Acknowledgements

Joel Chisholm (Senior Ranger Conservation–Western Regional Parks, Auckland Council) and Simon Stoddart (Ranger, Auckland Council) provided client liaison and useful background information. Ewen Cameron (Auckland Herbarium) and Janeen Collings (Senior Regional Advisor Flora, Auckland Council) provided useful site information and plant records.

References

Agrichemical Users’ Code of Practice: NZ Agrichemical Education

Trust.

Auckland Council. 2018: Auckland Unitary Plan Operative in Part.

Auckland Council 2019a: Mahere ā-Rohe Whakahaere Kaupapa Koiora Orotā mō Tāmaki Makaurau 2019-2029, Auckland Regional Pest Management Plan 2019-2029. Auckland Council.

Denyer, K., Cutting, M., Campbell, G., Green, C., and Hilton, M. 1993: Waitakere Ecological District: Survey Report for the Protected Natural Areas Programme. Auckland Regional Council, Auckland.

Hitchmough R., Barr B., Lettink M., Monks J., Reardon J., Tocher M., van Winkel D, and Rolfe J. 2016: Conservation status of New Zealand reptiles, 2015. New Zealand Threat Classification Series 17. Department of Conservation. Wellington.

Newman D., Bell B., Bishop P., Burns R., Haigh A., and Hitchmough R. 2013: Conservation status of New Zealand frogs, 2013. New Zealand threat classification series 5. Department of Conservation. Wellington.

Lindsay H., Wild C., and Byers S. 2009: Auckland Protection Strategy. A report to the Nature Heritage Fund Committee. Published by the Nature Heritage Fund. Wellington.

New Zealand Standard NZS 8409 2004: The Management of Agrichemicals.

Waitakere Ranges Heritage Area Act, No. 1. 2008. Retrieved from www.legislation.govt.nz/act/local/2008/0001/latest/DLM1076035.html

Wildland Consultants Ltd 2017: lizard search and rescue at 17 Log Race Road, Piha. Contract Report No. 4334. 10 pp.

http://www.legislation.govt.nz/act/local/2008/0001/latest/DLM1076035.html

List of vascular plant species recorded at Taitomo Reserve

Gymnosperms

Agathis australis kauri

Dacrydium cupressinum rimu

Phyllocladus trichomanoides tānekaha

Monocot. trees and shrubs

Cordyline australis tī kōuka, cabbage tree

Cordyline banksii tī ngahere, forest cabbage tree

Rhopalostylis sapida nīkau

Dicot. trees and shrubs

Alseuosmia macrophylla toropapa, karapapa, matukuroimata

Brachyglottis repanda rangiora

Coprosma lucida karamū, kāramuramu, glossy karamū

Coprosma repens taupata

Coprosma robusta karamū, kāramuramu

Coprosma macrocarpa subsp. minor

Coriaria arborea tutu

Geniostoma ligustrifolium hangehange

Griselinia lucida puka

Hedycarya arborea porokaiwhiri; pigeonwood

Hoheria populnea houhere, lacebark

Knightia excelsa rewarewa

Kunzea robusta kānuka

Leptospermum scoparium agg. mānuka

Leucopogon fasciculatus mingimingi

Leucopogon fraseri pātōtara

Melicytus ramiflorus māhoe

Metrosideros excelsa pōhutukawa

Myrsine australis māpou, matipou, māpau

Olearia furfuracea akepiro, tanguru


Ozothamnus leptophyllus tauhinu

Pimelea longifolia tāranga

Piper excelsum kawakawa

Pittosporum crassifolium karo

Planchonella costata tawāpou

Pomaderris kumeraho kūmarahou

Pouteria costata tawāpou

Pseudopanax arboreus whauwhaupaku, puahou, five finger

Pseudopanax crassifolius horoeka, lancewood

Pseudopanax crassifolius × P. lessonii

Pseudopanax lessonii houpara

Sophora fulvida

Veronica macrocarpa

Veronica obtusata

Veronica stricta koromiko, kōkōmuka

Vitex lucens pūriri

Monocot. lianes

Freycinetia banksii kiekie

Ripogonum scandens supplejack, kareao

Dicot. lianes

Metrosideros diffusa rātā

Muehlenbeckia complexa pōhuehue

Lycopods and psilopsids

Lycopodium deuterodensum puakarimu

Ferns

Adiantum aethiopicum huruhuru tapairu, maidenhair fern

Adiantum cunninghamii huruhuru tapairu, maidenhair fern

Asplenium oblongifolium huruhuru whenua

Cyathea dealbata ponga, silver fern

Cyathea medullaris mamaku

Doodia australis pukupuku

Lomaria discolor piupiu, crown fern

Paesia scaberula mātātā

Parablechnum minus swamp kiokio

Parablechnum novae-zelandiae kiokio

Pneumatopteris pennigera pākau

Polystichum wawranum pikopiko, shield fern

Pteridium esculentum rārahu, bracken

Pteris macilenta titipo, sweet fern

Pteris saxatilis

Orchids

Microtis unifolia agg. onion orchid

Thelymitra sp. sun orchid

Winika cunninghamii

Grasses

Lachnagrostis billardierei sand wind grass

Poa anceps

Sedges

Carex flagellifera manaia

Carex solandri

Cyperus ustulatus toetoe upoko-tangata

Gahnia lacera tarangārara, toetoe kiwi, toetoe

ngaungau, tatangi

Gahnia setifolia māpere

Ficinia nodosa wīwī

Isolepis cernua Lepidosperma laterale Machaerina juncea Machaerina rubiginosa

Schoenus tendo wīwī

Rushes

Apodasmia similis oioi


Monocot. herbs (other than orchids, grasses, sedges, and rushes)

Arthropodium cirratum rengarenga

Astelia banksii kakaha, pūwharawhara, wharawhara,

kōwharawhara

Astelia hastata kahakaha

Dianella nigra tūrutu

Phormium cookianum subsp. hookeri wharariki, mountain flax

Phormium tenax harakeke, flax

Typha orientalis raupō

Composite herbs

Celmisia major var. major Euchiton audax

Senecio lautus var. lautus

Dicot. herbs (other than composites)

Apium prostratum subsp. prostratum var. filiforme tūtae-kōau, New Zealand celery

Centella uniflora

Disphyma australe subsp. australe horokaka

Drosera auriculata sundew

Gonocarpus micranthus piripiri

Haloragis erecta toatoa

Hydrocotyle elongata Hydrocotyle moschata

Lobelia anceps punakura

Oxalis rubens sand oxalis

Plantago lanigera

Samolus repens var. repens māakoako

Sarcocornia quinqueflora ureure, glasswort

Selliera radicans remuremu, rekoreko, raumangu

Tetragonia implexicoma kōkihi, rengamutu, rengarenga, tūtae- ikamoana

Naturalised and exotic species

Gymnosperms

Pinus radiata radiata pine

Dicot. trees and shrubs

Cotoneaster glaucophyllus cotoneaster

Hakea sericea prickly hakea

Lupinus arboreus lupin

Paraserianthes lophantha brush wattle

Ulex europaeus gorse

Monocot. lianes

Asparagus scandens climbing asparagus

Dicot. lianes

Delairea odorata German ivy

Dipogon lignosus mile-a-minute

Passiflora tarminiana banana passionfruit

Rumex sagittatus climbing dock

Grasses

Cenchrus clandestinus kikuyu grass

Cortaderia selloana pampas

Dactylis glomerata cocksfoot

Ehrharta erecta veldt grass

Holcus lanatus Yorkshire fog

Paspalum dilatatum paspalum

Phyllostachys aurea walking stick bamboo

Sporobolus africanus ratstail


Monocot. herbs (other than orchids, grasses, sedges, and rushes)

Agapanthus praecox agapanthus

Allium triquetrum onion weed

Aristea ecklonii aristea

Gladiolus undulatus gladiolus

Hedychium gardnerianum kahili ginger, wild ginger

Lilium formosanum Formosan lily

Tradescantia fluminensis tradescantia

Zantedeschia aethiopica arum lily

Composite herbs

Helminthotheca echioides oxtongue

Leucanthemum vulgare oxeye daisy

Sonchus oleraceus puha, sow thistle

Dicot. herbs (other than composites)

Anagallis arvensis scarlet pimpernel

Centaurium erythraea centaury

Cerastium fontanum subsp. vulgare mouse-ear chickweed

Daucus carota wild carrot

Euphorbia helioscopia sun spurge

Lotus pedunculatus lotus

Medicago sp. medick

Phytolacca octandra inkweed

Platago australis swamp plantain

Plantago major broad-leaved plantain

Prunella vulgaris selfheal

Ranunculus repens creeping buttercup

Senecio skirrhodon gravel groundsel

Rumex conglomeratus clustered dock

Tropaeolum majus garden nasturtium

List of environmental pest plant species recorded within Taitomo Reserve

Common Name Scientific Name Agapanthus Agapanthus praecox Aristea Aristea ecklonii Arum lily Zantedeschia aethiopica Banana passionfruit Passiflora tripartita Brush wattle Paraserianthes lophantha Climbing asparagus Asparagus scandens Climbing dock Rumex sagittatus Cotoneaster Cotoneaster glaucophyllus Formosan lily Lilium formosanum Garden nasturtium* Tropaeolum majus German ivy Delairea odorata Gorse Ulex europaeus Inkweed* Phytolacca octandra Mile-a-minute Dipogon lignosus Pampas Cortaderia selloana Prickly hakea Hakea sericea Radiata pine* Pinus radiata Tradescantia Tradescantia fluminensis Tree lupin Lupinus arboreus Walking stick bamboo Phyllostachys aurea Wild ginger Hedychium gardnerianum

* Not currently included in the ARPMP 2019-2029 (Auckland Council 2019).

restoration and vegetation management plan for taitomo ...€¦ · 5/2/2020 · restoration and...

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