Track closure due to work on the Ferrymead Regional Park Development Plan – tree felling operation set to begin on 15 July.

Ferrymead Park is a lovely area set along the Ōpāwaho Heathcote River and estuary. The project is to remove the large stand of pine trees along the true right bank of the Ōpāwaho Heathcote River and is expected to take six weeks.

Most of the Ōpāwaho River Track, the walkway between Tunnel Road and Ferrymead Park Drive, will be closed during this time. There will be signage and fencing on site when the contractors are due to start. Link to further information: https://ccc.govt.nz/parks-and-gardens/explore-parks/coast-and-plains/ferrymead-park#plan

Once the pine trees have been removed, the area will be replanted with almost 12,000 native plants this August/September. The project has been assessed by the Council Biodiversity Team and small number of existing trees will be left for roosting for the local birdlife. The other exotic trees are recommended for removal to allow for a more appropriate forest type to be developed.

There will be a community planting session, details to follow.