Three main phases
Secure
The first phase is to secure the Mounga from weeds and animal pests. This will protect biodiversity already present and secure the park from further damage. The project will involve pest and weed control over more than 34,000 hectares from mountains to sea.
Taranaki Mounga aims to eradicate goats. Possums, rodents, hares, and mustelids will be controlled through a combination of trapping, ground and aerial predator control.
The project also aims to eliminate and manage re-invasion from the worst weeds. These include wild ginger, climbing asparagus, and others where possible.
Restore
Getting rid of weeds and predators will allow birds and other native species to thrive and reproduce successfully.
Taranaki Mounga will reintroduce lost species like toutouwai/robin, kākāriki, kākā, and seabirds like petrels. Eventually it is hoped kōkako, bats, and tīeke/saddleback will once again flourish on the Mounga.
The project will also work to boost populations of species already there. These include kiwi, whio/blue duck, pekapeka/long tailed bats, Powelliphanta snails. Also, rare plants like Dactylanthus and the endemic Melicytus drucei shrub, found only on Taranaki and nearby Pouakai.
Sustain
Taranaki Mounga aims to inspire young people to be the next generation of kaitiaki of the Mounga and national park. The aim in 20 years is to see ecological, social, and cultural change for the better on the Mounga. But there will be ongoing work needed to ensure the outcomes are maintained.
The project objectives will be complimented and enhanced by two supporting outcomes:
The creation of a halo
Taranaki Mounga will work with partners to develop innovative, effective means of pest control to protect the park and beyond. Taranaki Regional Council are leading this work. A halo of protection around the Mounga is a part of the recently announced Taranaki Taku Tūranga, towards a predator free Taranaki programme of work (https://trc.govt.nz/environment/working-together/pf-taranaki2050/).
The creation of a halo will minimise the risk of pests and predators migrating onto the Mounga. It will also provide habitat for species that move out of the national park and into the surrounding environment.
Oranga Mounga Oranga Tangata – Healthy Nature, Healthy People
This part of the project recognises that being in nature is good for wellbeing; in this case, a connection with the Mounga. The project will enable the development of other important plans that will work to improve the communities, health, education, skill development and wellbeing because of the close connection with nature and the Taranaki Mounga project.
