Preserving nature's trails

Words Rebecka Keeling

Nestled among native forests and winding landscapes in Mangawhai, a group of dedicated volunteers known as the Mangawhai Tracks Charitable Trust, affectionately dubbed the 'trackies,' is quietly making a significant impact on the community.

Chair, Gordon Hosking, says the trackies originated 12 years ago from the Mangawhai Walking Weekend, an annual event that draws around 600 participants. Since then it’s grown organically through the community's passion for walking and preserving the natural beauty surrounding Mangawhai.

The primary objectives of the Mangawhai Tracks Charitable Trust are clear: the maintenance and development of tracks. "We also collaborate with other nearby groups, and are looking to expand into mountain bike tracks as well," says Gordon, a retired forester with a lifetime of experience in navigating New Zealand's native forests.

Currently, the trackies are working on the restoration of the Back Bay Boardwalk. This 500-metre long boardwalk, nestled among mangroves, suffered severe damage in the recent storm. With the help of engineers, they are working on a strategy to repair and future- proof this beloved pathway.

"We're also doing a lot of repair work in the Brynderwyn Hills at the moment," says Gordon. "There's mainly water damage and trees that have fallen down. We're keen to get these tracks back into shape for the summer, which is the busiest time."

Creating new walking tracks is a physical as well as a social event. "Every Friday morning, a dozen volunteers gather to build tracks using spades, grubbers, and hand saws," says Gordon. He emphasises the environmental considerations involved, particularly when dealing with kauri trees, ensuring adherence to DOC standards to protect the local giants.

Maintaining existing tracks presents its own set of challenges. Wooden steps require regular upkeep, drainage systems are installed to prevent damage from streams, and crushed rock is laid on muddy stretches. Weed control, with a focus on combating the invasive asparagus fern, plays a crucial role in keeping the tracks pristine.

Gordon's personal favourite is the Botanical Track. Part of the Tanekaha complex, the track is easy to walk - it meanders through native bush and past waterfalls, providing a picturesque three-hour experience.

For walkers seeking hidden gems closer to home, Gordon recommends two tracks in Mangawhai Park, Paul's Track and the Last of the Summer Wine Track, both of which offer a gentle 45-minute stroll.

The Mangawhai Tracks Charitable Trust embodies the spirit of community-led conservation, ensuring that the trails we traverse today will be enjoyed by generations to come.

www.MangawhaiTracks.com | TracksInMangawhai@gmail.com