The following is the summary excerpt from the SER report, the full report is included below as either a word document, or a pdf.

Summary:
The aim of this project is to set up a self-sustaining natural heritage park in which pre-existing communities, now represented on this site only by fragments, are actively restored.

The park will represent the original ecosystem diversity of the Hamilton Basin, as the Hamilton Ecological District (159, 376 ha) has only 1.6% of indigenous vegetation remaining, while Hamilton city itself has only fragments of the former indigenous cover. What remains over-represents hill country and under-represents lowland forest and wetlands, which this project includes.

The location is unique as it includes landforms representative of the major Hamilton Basin ecotypes yet is easily accessible to urban residents and schools, facilitating understanding and appreciation of New Zealand’s native ecological heritage.

It is intended that the park eventually be enclosed by a pest proof fence to enable safe reintroduction of the faunal components of the original ecosystems. It will be open to the general public, will provide interpretive information, and the process of restoration will provide a means for city residents to enjoy the recreational and spiritual value of native biodiversity restoration.

Full Report:
PDF File (956kb) SER Report.pdf
Word File (1740kb) SER Report.doc