Auckland Council is seeking interest from potential partners to help secure a strategically significant pocket of land on Mahurangi east peninsula, to strengthen conservation outcomes for endangered ecosystems and native species.
The coastal property includes 19 hectares of forest and farmland, neighbouring Mahurangi East Regional Park, and has the potential to support a wide range of indigenous wildlife through habitat protection and restoration.
Its location could strengthen an existing network of predator free and protected habitats, including Shakespear and Tāwharanui open sanctuaries, Tiritiri Matangi Island, ecosystem restoration efforts on Kawau Island and biodiversity protection and restoration activity being delivered on parks and by local communities in the area.
Rodney Ward Councillor Greg Sayers says securing the land will allow the council, iwi and conservation partners to build on the work already achieved to enhance biodiversity through the north.
“This is a great opportunity to create a legacy for future generations, close to the popular holiday destination of Martins Bay,” Cr Sayers says.
“The potential to enhance important ecosystems, like wetlands, is particularly key due to their national and regional conservation status.”
The property is classified as an outstanding natural landscape with significant ecological values within the Auckland Unitary Plan. It features two protected houses with high heritage values, including Rodmersham House – a five-bedroom Victorian villa built in 1886.
General Manager Commercial and Property Mace Ward says the council recognises that a partnership approach is the best opportunity to protect this special place and contribute to conservation outcomes across the Hauraki Gulf.
“We are now looking to identify partners with the ability to contribute to the initial purchase and be invested in the longer-term possibilities for restoration,” Mr Ward says.
“The council is seeking to find a suitable partnership in the next few months to secure the property,” adds Mr Ward.
Both the Department of Conservation, which manages public conservation land at the tip of the peninsula, and local iwi support the council’s approach.
The property has been cared for under family ownership for the past 140 years, originally covering 122 hectares of scenic farmland.
In addition to its historical buildings, the landscape also features two beaches, a jetty, boatshed and various farm buildings. Primary access is by boat although road access is possible through Mahurangi East Regional Park with council approval.