Ecological restoration at Matawai Park: reconciling management and forest ecology: A dissertation submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the Degree of Bachelor of Resource Studies with Honours

Abstract

In lowland areas of New Zealand agricultural systems have largely replaced the indigenous biota. Ecological restoration efforts in Christchurch and its surrounds are attempts to bring indigenous biota back into human settlements. I undertook a study of Matawai Park, a district council reserve in Rangiora, Canterbury. This urban reserve is managed by a community-based Advisory Group, on the basis of ecological principles. Their ecological management objective is to restore distinct self-sustaining indigenous forest communities.I undertook an ecological analysis of the forest vegetation, looking particularly at seedling composition to understand regeneration processes. I aimed to integrate this ecological knowledge with an understanding of park management, to evaluate whether management goals and practices are compatible with the nature of the vegetation. At a more encompassing level I explored how the Matawai Park Advisory Group could incorporate the findings of my research into their management of the park.

I found that seedling composition, which indicates future canopy composition was slightly different between communities. I related these differences primarily to differences in canopy composition, and the limited dispersal that has probably occurred over the 25 years since initial planting. Importantly, major canopy species were not regenerating, which indicates that the current community differences may not be maintained. However, I did find some environmental variation between communities, that may suggest some differences may be maintained and created through time.

I developed a model, from concepts in restoration ecology literature for comparison with the current management approach of the Advisory Group. This comparison enabled me to raise questions that the Group could debate, and thus bring about a process of learning and improvement of restoration at the park. However, I did explore some of the questions and suggested clarification of the objective of self-sustaining communities, so that it is more realistic, measurable and achievable. Alternatively, the objectives of the park could be altered. However, the concept of distinct and self-sustaining communities is valued for social particularly education purposes, emphasising that restoration is a complex expression of the people's values. Effective management involves understanding the ecology of the park, recognising limitations and involving the local community so education objectives are achieved, and a healthy relationship established between people and the environment.