Rural Design at Tara Iti
Rural Design has been working at Tara Iti since 2012. The project started off with a direct focus on restoring dune habitats to as close to their original natural state as possible and softening the effects of the golf course on surrounding natural habitat. Prior to Tara Iti and Rural Design involvement, the area was dominated by introduced pine trees which drained the soil of nutrients and were a breeding ground for pest species such as rats, rabbits, wild pigs; and mustelids such as stoats and ferrets.
How we’ve transformed the land
Tara Iti is a predominantly hot dry area with a lot of sand blowing through the landscape. Selecting appropriate native species is of paramount importance. We have been fortunate to be involved in reintroducing endemic coastal species to the Te Arai area and replenishing the dunes with appropriately eco-sourced coastal plants.
An evolving project
The Tara Iti Golf course and surrounds employ large numbers of locals and local businesses, with Rural Design having been on board since the project’s infancy. Over time our work has diversified, and we are now involved with not only dune restoration and revegetation; but working on high-end landscaping for house sections with some of Aotearoa’s top Landscape Architects and designers. Over summer we are flat out maintaining all existing planting. Having now planted close to 2 Million plants, there is plenty to look after!
An evolving project
The Tara Iti Golf course and surrounds employ large numbers of locals and local businesses, with Rural Design having been on board since the project’s infancy. Over time our work has diversified, and we are now involved with not only dune restoration and revegetation; but working on high-end landscaping for house sections with some of Aotearoa’s top Landscape Architects and designers. Over summer we are flat out maintaining all existing planting. Having now planted close to 2 Million plants, there is plenty to look after!
Ongoing relationship
Currently Rural Design have around 6 workers based at Tara Iti permanently, with more floating in an out where required. With Te Arai South now opening up and two new golf courses being developed, there is plenty more planting to do in the future.
