Hello,

In the past term my class has been doing work with Heather Speirs. We went to Ngawakahaimoe Bush Reserve. Heather showed us around and talked to us about this treasure. When we got back we had to make a map, this map had to be a birds-eye-view of our nature reserve.

This is mine. please tell me what you think. This is the success criteria:

You will create a bird’s eye view map of your native reserve. Your map should show:
The different habitats found in your reserve (like dune areas, swampy areas, or lowland forest).
Where different native trees might grow best (like Pukatea in the swamp, or Matai and Totara on the dunes).
Areas that need restoration, perhaps like a paddock that is being turned back into bush or wetland.

Ways you will protect the native species from threats, like fencing to stop grazing animals or special zones for trapping introduced predators (like rats, possums, or stoats).

Important water features, like wetlands or streams, remembering that lots of fresh water is essential.

Where you might help special native animals, like snails, lizards, or mudfish, live safely.

Access points or tracks for kaitiaki or visitors.

Remember to give your reserve a name!

Example Map Idea:

Your map could be drawn on a large piece of paper or cardboard. You could divide it into different coloured zones representing the dune habitat (yellow/brown), swamp/wetland habitat (blue/green), and mixed forest areas (dark green).

Show a section labelled “Dune Restoration Area” where you plan to plant Totara trees.

Show a “Swamp Zone” with drawings of Pukatea trees with their special roots. 

Another thing we had to do was make a poster about Ngawakahaimoe:

I really loved our sessions with Heather because she was passionate and interesting.

What do you think I could add to either my poster or map?

Looking forward to reading your feedback – Anthea