Matariki tree planting at Takapūneke Reserve
Christchurch City Council Newsline: 30th June 2026
The next stage of development at Takapūneke Reserve will be marked by a Matariki tree planting event and all are welcome.
The 14-hectare reserve on the outskirts of Akaroa is being transformed through a partnership by Ōnuku Rūnanga and Christchurch City Council.
Recent work has seen the creation of two more takarangi, which are double spiral pathways, as well as a discovery trail and a network of paths through the Reserve. There has also been the installation of a main pou and nine Matariki pou markers, designed by Ngāi Tahu master carver Fayne Robinson.
Rik Tainui, Chairperson of Ōnuku Rūnanga and member of the Takapūneke Co-Governance Group said: “Our stories and mātauranga Māori have been woven into the landscape of Takapūneke so they can be experienced by all. We’re excited to share these stories and our sacred place with our local community and the communities of Ōtautahi.”
Regional Parks Manager Paul Devlin says the tree planting is an important way to reflect on the work that has been completed so far at the culturally and historically significant site, which was the scene of a massacre in 1830.
“It is good to celebrate the progress we have made in developing this important place.”
He says the planting is suitable for families, with warm clothing and sturdy footwear recommended.
“It has been timed to coincide with Matariki, which signals the start of the Māori New Year with the rising of the Matariki star cluster.”
The public event is being held on Friday 10 July and will start at 10.15am with a brief history talk about the reserve, followed by a walking tour to hear the kōrero behind the newly unveiled design and artworks. The planting will begin at 11.30am, followed by a sausage sizzle at the Red House from 1pm. The public should gather at one of newly built takarangi - near the Britomart Monument.
Mr Devlin says additional plans are already underway for the next stages of development at Takapūneke.
“This involves the development of a main car park, toilets, and waharoa entrance including interpretation on the old landfill on Ōnuku Road. There is also further development of the path network to provide longer walking tracks as well as ongoing native planting restoration.”
Accessible parking and access is available via the Beach Road entrance. General public parking is available at the Ōnuku Road car park. Parking is limited.
Find out more about the Takapūneke Tree Planting and Walking Tour.