What is re-wilding and where in Sandringham will it happen?
Re-wilding is a movement to bring wild spaces back to our local environment. Our idea to do a pilot re-wilding project Sandringham was to create a "no mow" zone in one of Sandringham's parks. This involved convincing Council to make a decision to "not mow" in a specific area.
What does the no-mow zone achieve?
Re-wilding initiatives such as these help to rebuild the soil, solidify ground in parks from slips and prevent silt from going into local waterways and the harbour, disrupting aquatic life.
What does the no-mow zone achieve?
- allows grasses and shrubs to re-grow
- recreates a healthy eco-system
- brings bird and insect life back to the park and surrounding area
Re-wilding initiatives such as these help to rebuild the soil, solidify ground in parks from slips and prevent silt from going into local waterways and the harbour, disrupting aquatic life.
Where did the idea come from, and why Watea?
We heard about the amazing work the Wild Initiative had done in re-wilding a section of Grey Lynn park it got us thinking, was this something that the Sandringham community would like to see? And could we find the perfect park for a similar project somewhere in Sandringham?
Steeply sloped areas of park that are not used for sports, and less frequented parks are the best option for re-wilding as they have the least impact on existing use. So out of the parks in Sandringham, it was decided that a section of Watea Reserve seemed like the best option to start our own re-wilding pilot project. The photo above shows Bruce and Georgia at the top of the slope we were considering. Through conversation with Council, this was later moved to further down the park.
Steeply sloped areas of park that are not used for sports, and less frequented parks are the best option for re-wilding as they have the least impact on existing use. So out of the parks in Sandringham, it was decided that a section of Watea Reserve seemed like the best option to start our own re-wilding pilot project. The photo above shows Bruce and Georgia at the top of the slope we were considering. Through conversation with Council, this was later moved to further down the park.
Development of the project
As with all SPiCE projects, we wanted to hear from the community first before getting underway! Despite the very windy and occasionally rainy weather (and Covid!) we had a wonderful turnout. Bruce and Wendy from the Wild Initiative shared their experience in Grey Lynn and answered questions. We then did a walk in the park to get everyone's view of where we should have the "no mow" area.
We would love your feedback on this initiative, so please contact us to let us know what you think, we look forward to hearing your views.
Watea Reserve no-mow zone established!
Our pilot project was a success thanks to the enthusiasm and support from our community, and in June 2024 the no-mow zone was officially established in Watea Reserve. You can see above pictures of the signage for the area being set up in the park. Below, you can see pictures of no-mow zone only half a year later, already looking lush and beautiful in Summer 2025!
Watea Kaitiaki
As part of on-going efforts to care for one of our local taonga, SPiCE are on the lookout for locals keen to be part of a Watea Katiaki group. No pressure and no expectations - just join our WhatsApp group and be kept in the loop on upcoming weeding bees and events in the park, and share with us what you would like to see happening in Watea!
Get in touch if you'd like to know more or join the group!
Get in touch if you'd like to know more or join the group!
