Trust signs M.O.U. with Waikato District Council

Waikato District Council has signed an Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Tamahere Mangaone Restoration Trust which formalises the effective and positive working relationship between both parties. Council will provide support and guidance towards the implementation of selected gully restoration projects alongside the trust. The signing of a MOU has cleared a pathway towards further ecological restoration and the creation of new walkways in the Tamahere Gully Network. Deputy Mayor Aksel Bech is proud of the relationship that has been fostered between the parties and the benefits the completed projects will bring to the Tamahere community.

The Tamahere Mangaone Restoration Trust is a locally-led cohort with expertise and passion for the environment. Operating as a charitable organisation since 2013, the trust has spent more than 10,000 volunteer hours planting native trees and plants, removing invasive species, and maintaining the planting grounds across the Tamahere gullies.

Tamahere resident and Chairperson of the trust, Leo Koppens is delighted to formalise this positive working relationship. “Under the stewardship of Waikato District Council, the MOU allows close collaboration between both parties and to ensure a key asset is built, managed, shared with the public and maintained into the future”.

“The restoration work could not proceed without volunteer works and funding. The Tamahere Mangaone Restoration Trust appreciates the support of Waikato District Council, key stakeholders and the generosity of the funding organisations to enable us to protect our backyard,” says Leo Koppens.

Russell Gibbs Secretary TMRT 25th August 2021.