Horizons is developing a new management strategy for the Rangitīkei River that recognises the dynamic nature of the river.
The intention is to move towards a more resilient river system that has ‘more room’ while accommodating goals of greater river character, richer river biodiversity, and enhanced public access and recreational opportunity.
This project focuses on only the Lower Rangitīkei River from Bulls to the sea and includes:
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Creating ‘a mobility corridor’ for the river. This river management strategy focuses on allowing the awa more room to move and change, as per river health which is highly dynamic. The goal is to create a mobility corridor to allow the river to flow more naturally while still providing flood protection to surrounding areas.
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This will involve the removal of non-native vegetation (both mechanically and with aerial spraying).
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Slowly transitioning pastoral land into a continuous native plant corridor alongside the river.
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The creation of pathways for recreational use along some parts of the stopbank.
The project is intended to have positive environmental and social outcomes for the Rangitīkei River and its users.
