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As summer visitors pour into Mangawhai, Waipu, and the surrounding beachside towns, many may pause to ask a simple question: Other than the beautiful beaches and great fishing, why else is this region so special with a great focus for conservation?
The answer lies in the Brynderwyn ranges – the forested backbone stretching from the eastern coastal headland to State Highway 1. It’s well known that the islands to the east are predator free sanctuaries, which means the coastal headland between Mangawhai Heads and Langs Beach is the first landing point for native birds arriving on the mainland. This is one of the reasons the area has been formally designated a High Value Area (HVA) for conservation, one of just seven across Northland.
Each HVA is coordinated by a local “working group.” In the Brynderwyns, that role belongs to the Piroa Conservation Trust (PCT), a community-led organisation that has become a driving force in restoring ecosystems and protecting native species.
The story began more than 30 years ago at Marunui Conservation, where early restoration efforts took root. What started as a local project has blossomed into a regional network. Today, PCT coordinates funding, resources and expertise for dozens of conservation groups and landowners across an impressive 30,000 hectares.
Last year, the Trust’s work was celebrated at the Northland Regional Council’s annual awards, where PCT proudly received the Kiwi Coast Outstanding Project of the Year. The award recognised a community-led project with proven results and a long-term vision for pest and weed elimination, forest regeneration, native species translocation and steadily increasing kiwi populations. The Trust also received the Environmental Action in Water Quality Improvement award, highlighting the breadth of its work and great work with farmers in Bream Bay.
Its mission is straightforward but ambitious: To restore healthy ecosystems through predator control, weed management, water care and revegetation. By building partnerships and mobilising volunteers, the Trust has become a shining example of how community-driven conservation can achieve large-scale impact.
This work is already bearing fruit. One of its proudest achievements is the Northland Brown Kiwi recovery project. Between 2013 and 2015, kiwi were successfully translocated to the Brynderwyns and thanks to sustained pest control, these birds are breeding in the hills. Ongoing surveys track their population growth, breeding success and movement patterns.
Another flagship goal is bringing back the bellbird to Waipu. Once common, bellbirds disappeared from the area due to predation and habitat loss. By reducing pests and restoring native vegetation, bellbirds are reappearing in forest areas where predator control is consistent. Although they are not yet a regular presence in urban gardens, PCT hopes to hear their distinctive song return to the Waipu village soon.
Education is another cornerstone of PCT’s mission. Through school engagement and hands-on activities, the Trust provides practical conservation experiences for students. Young people learn to set traps, identify species and understand the importance of biodiversity. Weekend programmes for teens and workshops for the public, covering many topics, help spread knowledge and build capacity across the community.
As holidaymakers enjoy the beaches, visitors are reminded that our beaches and the ranges are home to many at-risk species. If you’re walking the cliff-top track or Tanekaha trail, please note that dogs are not permitted in these areas, and please don’t let them chase birds on the beach.
So, for visitors and locals alike, the message is clear: The Brynderwyns are more than just a scenic backdrop. They are a living, breathing ecosystem and are well on the path to recovery.
Behind the scenes, PCT’s success depends on strong partnerships and diverse funding. Sponsors and donors provide essential financial support. Local businesses have been incredibly supportive, recognising the value of conservation for both community wellbeing and tourism. Collaboration with landowners, Kiwi Coast, Shorebirds Trust, Mountains to the Sea Conservation Trust, hapu, Fonterra, Westpac and government agencies such as the Department of Conservation and Northland Regional Council, MPI and more, ensures that efforts are aligned and resources maximised.
The Trust’s story is one of tenacity and collaboration. By combining grassroots energy with strategic partnerships, the group is safeguarding Northland’s natural heritage for future generations, but there is no doubt that volunteers and landowners are the lifeblood of the organisation.
We are always looking for new volunteers and keen landowners – every hand makes a difference. So if you are keen to get involved, donate or just understand a bit more drop an email to info@piroaconservation.org.nz or https://www.pbl.org.nz/
