We never envisioned this project as a monoculture, consequently we have planted vines in suitable pockets of differing river terraces, soils and microclimates. Surrounding these pockets, land is grazed by cattle and sheep, or used in our biodiversity projects.
Through our working relationship with Wai-Ora Landscapes (NZ native and regenerative plant specialists) we have encouraged regeneration of matagouri, coprosmas, and rare mulenbeckia astonii on the steep banks of our terraces. These host populations of NZ skinks and geckos, and rare native moths. Lincoln University uses Waipara West as a native moth and butterfly trial.
Several cluster plantings of native trees, shrubs and flaxes provide a bird corridor along our riverbank, especially for the bellbird; while the irrigation pond is a haven for waterfowl. Resident populations of morepork, grey heron, swallow, quail, kingfisher, and hawk continue to breed and flourish.
