Environment

An unspoilt treasure

Red beech

Near the fork of the Pakuratahi and Hutt Rivers you will find a conifer-broadleaf rainforest typical of the original vegetation of the Akatarawa and Hutt valleys. Rimu, rata, hinau and kamahi thrive on the more fertile river flats, with red beech appearing on the lower slopes. Black beech forest is mostly found on the higher spurs, ridge tops and areas with poorer soils. An unusually pure stand of hard beech lies on the terrace above the junction of Farm Creek and the Pakuratahi River.

These forests also form part of an ecological corridor running between the Remutaka and Tararua ranges, linking the Pakuratahi and Hutt river catchments. Together, the forests, rivers and variety of bush habitats provide food in abundance for a range of birds and native fish. Visitors will often see or hear tui, kereru (NZ pigeon), piwakawaka (fantail), korimako (bellbirds) or miromiro (tomtits).

Te Marua Bush is an important remnant of matai-totara bush, once widespread in the region. The Wellington Botanical Society and the Upper Hutt branch of Royal Forest and Bird have both helped restore this remnant by preparing species lists, propagating, growing and planting trees and other vegetation. To get involved in this project contact the park ranger.

Study and collection of natural materials