Community collaboration to restore local treasure
A long-term vision to restore Carnival Park Scenic Reserve in Pahiatua to its previous glory kicked off with a community open day on 16 June.
Carnival Park was opened as a botanic garden in 1915 with proceeds from a local carnival.
Explore Pahiatua Incorporated (EPI) member, Karolyn Donald, says the area was originally part of Te Tapere Nui O Whatonga (also known as 40-mile bush), but is now one of the few remnants of the once mighty forest.
“Some of the trees were here before European settlement and survived a devastating fire that ripped through the area in 1898. This makes the reserve unique and culturally significant.”
Karolyn has strong connections to the reserve. She grew up in Pahiatua and was the custodian of the neighbouring campground for 15 years. However, Karolyn says she is just one in a long line of locals who have managed and cared for Carnival Park.
“I’d especially like to acknowledge Stanley Wolland who has been involved with all things Carnival Park since 1975, and Judith Gleeson who first joined a planting at the reserve as a newly graduated teacher in the late 1960s and has been involved ever since. It’s a huge privilege to follow those who have gone before me.”
Tararua District Council administers the campground, and the Department of Conservation (DOC) administers the reserve.
EPI has set up an agreement with the DOC to enable community restoration of the site. The open day formally celebrated the establishment of this agreement and seeked community feedback and involvement in the next steps. DOC Community Ranger, Wendy Gray, says she’s excited about helping restore the reserve to its former glory and reintroducing endemic species.
“Restoring Carnival Park is a huge task and will take a lot of hard work. Full restoration won’t happen in my lifetime, but you’ve got to start somewhere” says Karolyn..
“Our community members have a great sense of ownership of this treasure. Carnival Park has been a large part of the lives of Pahiatua residents for centuries, and we look forward to securing it for our future generations as well.”