Totara Bank occupies an area of land that stretches from the Ruamahanga river to the Wardell hills, giving a variety of habitats for flora and fauna. The lower river terrace is suitable for wetland plant species, through intermediate species on the bank itself, to those favouring drier climates on the upper terrace.

The bank is home to many native plant species including Totara, Black Matai, Titoki, Kowhai, Cabbage trees, Lacebark and many others. The bank stretches up river as far as Wardells Bridge , and over this area is home to some rare native species, including Coprosma Walii. The Department of Conservation use this bank as a safe habitat area for these rare species, and the bank is registered as being of special significance in the regional Department of Conservation plans.

Ecological restoration and maintenance of native plant and animal habitat is important to the principles of Totara Bank. Approximately 15% of the land area is being returned to native bush, riparian planting is being carried out, and an ecological corridor established between the river valley and the Wardell hills.

The ecological restoration of the bank area and its use as a safe habitat for rare plant species is an ongoing goal for the development. In keeping with the principles of sustainability the development is designed to fit in with the environment, not in competition with it. Edible landscaping is used to provide food and possible cash crops, with olives, pine nuts, berries, hazelnuts and citrus fruits all being planted around the site.

There are resident Tui, Morepork, Pukeka, frog, eels, ducks, heron and geese use the pond.

Home