Pekapeka Wetland facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Pekapeka Wetland |
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| Location | Hastings, New Zealand |
| Area | 98 hectares (240 acres) |
| Operated by | Hawke's Bay Regional Council |
The Pekapeka Wetland is a special natural area in New Zealand. It's a type of wetland reserve located about 12 kilometres south of Hastings. You can find it in the Poukawa Basin of the Hawke's Bay area.
What is a Wetland?
A wetland is a unique place where land is covered by water, either all the time or for long periods. Think of it like a swamp or a marsh. Wetlands are super important because they act like natural filters for water. They also provide homes for many different kinds of plants and animals.
Saving Pekapeka Wetland
The Pekapeka Wetland wasn't always as healthy as it is today. In the late 1990s, the Hawke's Bay Regional Council started working to restore it. This meant removing unwanted plants like willows. They also built a fence around the area to protect it.
The Council worked hard to buy more of the wetland. They started with about half of the land. Now, they own about 90% of this important natural space.
Why Pekapeka Wetland is Special
This wetland is considered very valuable for nature in Hawke's Bay. In fact, it's rated as the second most important wetland in the region. It's a key spot for many native plants and animals to live and thrive.
The Poukawa Stream flows through the Pekapeka Wetland. This stream starts from Lake Poukawa in the south-west. It helps keep the wetland watered and healthy.
