The area protected in the lower reaches of the Corridor represent just 1% of the ecosystem type that was found on the Rangitaiki plains before they were drained for farming. This makes its connectivity to the consecutive ecosystems in the corridor all the more important by allowing the movement of certain desirable species. For example native birds use these corridors to access food supplies that vary with the season. Many native birds in the corridor (e.g. kokako) are not well adapted to crossing large areas of open farmland. The short distances between the blocks of forest cover within the Manawahe [...]

The Manawahe is clearly identifiable not just by arbitrary lines on a map but by conspicuous geographical features; rugged hills that rise suddenly from the Rangitaiki plains and bound by the Pacific Ocean and Rotoma.  Perhaps this factor lends itself to the Manawahe identity that has , despite its small size, created such a social and supportive community. So what draws people to the Manawahe? For some it is the rugged hills and the stunning views (for the resident Dutchies it’s the hills full stop) for others  the rural life style and recreational opportunities close at hand. For myself (Fran) [...]