Giant ask to protect and enhance Te Mata Park

Te Mata Park Trust has launched its Ngā Tīpuna Masterplan strategy and endowment fund with the aim of raising $20 million.

Ngā Tīpuna: Our Ancestors, Our Maunga, Our Journey, lays out a strategic vision to protect and enhance Hawke’s Bay’s most iconic land mass for future generations.

The strategy formalises the Park’s objectives and principles and sets out key projects over the next 50 years. They include a 50-year native restoration planting plan, infrastructure strategies, and enhancing educational resources.

Mike Devonshire, Chair of Te Mata Park Trust, said, “Ngā Tīpuna sets the direction for Te Mata Park Trust, providing a framework for us to achieve our objectives, aid decision making, and manage a coordinated programme of works.”

Alongside the new strategy, the Trust launched the Ngā Tīpuna Fund, an endowment fund managed by Hawke’s Bay Foundation.

Te Mata Park’s current funding model leaves a significant annual shortfall. Support from Te Mata Park’s valued key stakeholders the Hastings District Council and Hawke’s Bay Regional Council covers 60% of the Park’s annual operating costs. Every year the Trust must search for the remaining 40% to operate, as well as source additional funding to run the myriad of projects needed to enhance and protect the Park. Donations to the Ngā Tīpuna Fund can be made via Te Mata Park’s website, www.tematapark.co.nz/donate