New Wetland Development Underway at Lawrence Oliver Park

Te Puke's Lawrence Oliver Park is undergoing a significant restoration project to create a new treatment wetland. The 2,775 square meter wetland will feature over 3,000 native plants and three open-water ponds, designed to improve water quality, support wildlife, and reduce flooding while adding recreational and cultural value to the park.

The project is a joint initiative between Western Bay of Plenty District Council and Bay of Plenty Regional Council, with additional support from TECT and Fonterra. The wetland sits on land previously leased for livestock grazing and is culturally significant as it adjoins the pā site Te Aore, a historic battle campsite. According to WBOPDC reserves and facilities manager Peter Watson, wetlands are vital for keeping water clean, supporting wildlife, and reducing flood and drought impacts.

The restoration reflects outcomes from the Council's Reserve Management Plan adopted in 2022. During preliminary work, archaeologists discovered a buried tree radiocarbon-dated at over 3,900 years old. Once established, the wetland is expected to improve water quality entering Managh's Drain and provide valuable educational opportunities for the community.

Originally published in Te Puke News by Sun Media.