Okura Bush Walkway is one of Auckland's most popular walkways for a reason - the track winds its way next to the stunning Okura River estuary through beautiful mixed groves of pohutukawa, nikau and kauri to the coast. This environment has inspired a growing and highly passionate community-based group, the Friends of Okura Bush, intent on restoring the native biodiversity of the Okura Bush. With a small army of willing, enthusiastic volunteers, they work tirelessly to reduce the animal pests and invasive weeds.
The Friends of Okura Bush organised the Okura Forest Festival on the 14th February to pull together community groups and local music talent to celebrate the forest, raise awareness of local environmental issues and raise funds to support forest restoration work.
So what better way to spend Valentine's than by participating in a gorgeous forest festival in appreciation of this beautiful forest? Auckland Council Biosecurity Advisor Zoe Lyle, attended this lovely forest fundraiser to raise awareness of kauri dieback.
Friends of Okura Bush are strong advocates for the protection of kauri from kauri dieback disease. Unfortunately kauri dieback disease is alarmingly real in Okura bush with one area of kauri currently succumbing to this fatal disease.
The kauri dieback stand presented a forest activity to encourage children to create their own beautiful creatures to add to the forest whilst learning how to stop the spread of kauri dieback. When visiting Okura bush please ensure that all footwear is cleaned before and after your visit and remember to stay on the tracks!
For more information and to volunteer with the Friends of Okura Bush visit the website.
For information from the Okura DOC web page.