The Eastern Hutt hills : management options and implications

Abstract

Physical, biological and cultural information relevant to the management of the Eastern Hutt Hills (an area of steep lowland hill country flanking the Lower Hutt urban area) is described. The vegetation maps and descriptions in this section are original work, compiled specifically for this study. Present natural regeneration pathways are described, related to the present vegetation patterns, and. used to discuss future vegetational development.

Potential commercial uses for the hills are evaluated - farming, exotic afforestation, urban development, multiple use exotic afforestation, afforestation for firewood, and honey production. Natural regeneration is seen as the logical management option for most of the hills. Supplementary planting of fire resistant belts of vegetation in certain high fire risk areas is suggested, as well as a small multiple use woodlot/motor cycle course.

The present uses and the potential for non-vehicular and off-road vehicle recreation is discussed. Possible solutions to the conflicts between off-road vehicle recreation and the community are suggested.

The report concludes with a series of proposed management objectives.