Much progress has been made since the initial concept landscape plan for Jardine Park was unveiled at the KPCA AGM in March of this year.
Following the clear felling of the two stands of pines (see our May 5 blog), planting of clusters of beech trees and of fast growing natives for shelter (Pittosporum, Griselinia, Coprosma sp, Corokia, Oleria sp, Kowhai, Cabbage Trees and Plagianthus) has got underway. Our very own Neill Simpson (Chair of the Wakatipu Reforestation Trust) kicked this off with 30 beech trees. Further plantings by the Workforce Alliance, coordinated by AJ Hackett Bungy, and by the Student Volunteer Army from Christchurch followed.
This progress will culminate in the creation of a ‘Welcome Forest’ on 10 October, an initiative of Project Crimson through Trees That Count, welcoming new migrant families into our communities through the planting of trees to symbolically “put their roots down”. Starting at 9 am with a Karakia, come along and support this development. KPCA will be hosting a BBQ at 12:15 pm.
Some 2,600 seedlings will be in the ground, mulched, weed matted and rabbit proofed. The Wakatipu Reforestation Trust, located at the Jean Malpas Nursery in Jardine Park, has been instrumental in supporting all these plantings to ensure the maximum chance of success – we owe them a huge vote of thanks! QLDC is also to be congratulated in responding to the opportunity to create something special for future generations.
Separately, the Workforce Alliance was put to work in reconstructing a mountain bike track designed to be a flowing track for beginners. Located east of the path to the Jack’s Point trail, it is accessible for people of all ages and abilities to enjoy. The team also restored pathways both around and across the area of the new plantings.
The landscaping plan is now progressing by adding detail to a proposed Natural Playground which will straddle the path to the Jack’s Point trail, plus a 9 hole disk golf course. It is intended to present these plans at KPCA’s General Meeting on 28 October 2020 at the Queenstown Golf Club at 7pm. All Peninsula folk are welcome.