Tamahere is home to an increasing number of native birds and other wildlife as pest control improves and gullies are restored. For wildlife to settle here permanently, rather than just passing through, they need suitable food sources, shelter and safe breeding areas. Native plants are essential for creating that habitat, especially in gullies, stream edges and larger restoration areas.

Check out these resources about planting natives in your backyard or gully property:

• Predator Free NZ: make your place more attractive to native birdlife

• Forest and Bird: native plants that attract birds

• Kiwi Backyard by Andy Ellis: tips for growing native NZ plants in your backyard

For well-priced native plants, visit these local nurseries:

• Tamahere Nursery: Run by volunteers from the Waikato Ecological Restoration Trust at 284 Airport Road. Contact the Tamahere Nursery team for more details.

• Full Bloom Nursery: Located on Newstead Road.

• Forest Flora: Based in Ngaruawahia.

• Restore Native: On Asplin Road, Cambridge. They provide plants for larger orders over 250 and offer help with planting and maintenance. Check out their Facebook post about our local gullies. Contact Adam for more details.

• Need help with gully planting or gully pest management?
  Local companies such as Titoki Landcare and Green Footprint can provide advice and practical support for larger restoration areas. We’ve found Adam Purcell and the Titoki Landcare team, and Clare and Tim from Green Footprint, knowledgeable and helpful.

Have a gully, river edge or restoration area?
Tell us what you’re working on. Some of our volunteers have hands-on gully restoration experience and may be able to connect you with local planting advice, nearby restorers, or spare self-seeded natives such as kahikatea or cabbage tree seedlings.