Lake Rotokare Scenic Reserve invertebrate ecological restoration proposal

Abstract

The Rotokare Scenic Reserve is situated 12 km east of Eltham, South Taranaki, and is a popular recreation area for boating, walking and enjoying the scenery. The reserve consists of 230 ha of forested hill country, including a 17.8 ha lake and extensive wetland. Lake Rotokare is within the tribal area of the Ngati Ruanui and Ngati Tupaea people who used the area to collect food. Mature forested areas provide habitat for many birds including the fern bird (Sphenoeacus fulvus) and spotless crake (Porzana tabuensis), while the banded kokopu (Galaxias fasciatus) and eels (Anguilla australis schmidtii and Anguilla dieffenbachii) are found in streams and the lake, and the gold‐striped gecko (Hoplodactylus chrysosireticus) in the flax margins. In 2004 a broad group of users of the reserve established the Lake Rotokare Scenic Reserve Trust with the following mission statements: 1. To achieve the highest possible standard of pest control/eradication with or without a pest‐proof fence and to achieve a mainland island. 2. To have due regard for recreational users of Lake Rotokare Scenic Reserve. The aim of this report is to assess the potential for invertebrate restoration at Lake Rotokare Scenic Reserve and to recommend a plan of action.