Minginui Nursery

The Minginui nursery was established in 2008, with the goal of preserving and restoring the biodiversity of the Te Urewera and Whirinaki forests. The Te Urewera region is home to a number of rare and endangered plant species, and the nursery plays an important role in propagating and reintroducing these plants into the wild.

The Minginui Story

New Zealand is renowned for its lush forests and breathtaking scenery. The native tree nursery industry plays an important role in preserving this natural beauty. These nurseries specialise in growing and selling native plants, which are used in restoration projects, landscaping, and even farming.

The demand for native plants has been steadily increasing in recent years, as more people have become aware of the importance of preserving the country's unique flora and fauna, and local conservation boosts through catchment initiatives and Jobs for Nature.

The success of the Minginui Nursery can be attributed to the dedication and hard work of the Ngāti Whare people. The nursery has become a source of pride for the community, and it has helped to strengthen the connection between the people and the land. The nursery is an excellent example of how a community-based project can have a positive impact on both the environment and the local community.

Minginui Nursery is an inspiring project that demonstrates how a community can come together to create something that benefits everyone. The nursery provides high-quality native plants to the public, creates employment opportunities, and strengthens the connection between the people and the land. The success of the nursery is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the Ngāti Whare people, and it serves as an inspiration to other communities around the world.

Values, Aspirations and Goals

Ngāti Whare is an iwi located in the eastern Bay of Plenty region of New Zealand. Like many iwi, Ngāti Whare has a deep connection to the land and a strong sense of community. The iwi are committed to preserving and protecting the natural environment, and this commitment is reflected in their nursery values, aspirations, and goals.

One of the key values of Minginui's Nursery is sustainability. The iwi believe in using sustainable practices to cultivate and care for plants, and they strive to create a healthy, thriving ecosystem that supports both plant and animal life. They also believe in being responsible stewards of the land and protecting it for future generations.

In terms of aspirations, Minginui's nursery is focused on promoting the use of native plants in large scale landscaping and gardening. The tribe believes that using native plants helps to preserve the natural environment and supports the health and well-being of local ecosystems. They also aspire to provide educational opportunities for the community, including workshops, tours, and other events that promote sustainable gardening practices.

Finally, the Minginui Nursery has a number of goals that support its values and aspirations. These include increasing the availability of native plants for use in landscaping and gardening, expanding the nursery's educational programs, and developing partnerships with other organizations that share their commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. By working towards these goals, Minginui's Nursery is helping to create a more sustainable and resilient future for their community and the wider region.

Organisational Structure and Relationships

Minginui Nursery Limited Partnership is wholly owned by Ngāti Whare Holdings Limited. Ngāti Whare is an iwi (tribe) of the central North Island, whose customary rohe (territory) runs through the south-west Urewera and parts of the Kaingaroa region, including the area known as Te Whaiti-nui-a-Toi. Ngāti Whare takes its name from the eponymous ancestor Wharepakau. Together with his nephew Tangiharuru (the progenitor of Ngāti Whare) and their followers, Wharepakau conquered Te Marangaranga, the original inhabitants of the western Urewera/Kaingaroa area, sometime in the early 1600s. Ngāti Whare and their close neighbours Ngāti Manawa have remained residents on these lands ever since.

Ngāti Whare Holdings Limited is the Ngāti Whare Group’s commercial entity. The Company was established in 2009 as a vehicle to receive and manage settlement redress received from the Crown as part of the Treaty of Waitangi settlement.

The Ngāti Whare Holdings Limited Vision (Te Huapae) is “Economic advancement for Ngāti Whare”.

The Ngāti Whare Holdings Limited Mission Statement (Te Kaupapa) is “To create long-term wealth and opportunities for Ngāti Whare”.

The Company operates with a Board of Directors – Rick Braddock, Ian Hulton, and Bronco Carson. The organisation is led by CEO Mere George and her team.

Funding Partners

The Minginui Nursery is a community project that has received support from various organizations and individuals. One of the main supporters of the nursery is the Bay of Plenty Regional Council, which provides funding through its Environmental Enhancement Fund. The project has also received funding from the Ministry for Primary Industries, Te Uru Rākau (Forestry New Zealand), and the Department of Conservation.

In addition to financial support, the Minginui Nursery has also received assistance from local volunteers and community groups. The project has been supported by the Ngāti Whare Trust, the Whirinaki Catchment Group, and the Whirinaki Forest Management Limited Partnership. These groups have provided resources and expertise to help establish the nursery and ensure its success.

Overall, the success of the Minginui Nursery is due to the collaboration and support of a wide range of organisations and individuals who are committed to promoting sustainable land use and environmental conservation in the Bay of Plenty region.

Types of Plants

One of the most notable plants at the Minginui Nursery is the Kahikatea, which is a tall coniferous tree that can grow up to 60 meters in height. The Kahikatea is known for its straight trunk and narrow crown, making it a popular choice for use in construction and furniture-making. Other notable plants at the nursery include the Pohutukawa, which is a striking tree with bright red flowers that bloom during the summer months, and the rimu, a slow-growing evergreen tree that is highly valued for its fine-grained timber.

The Minginui Nursery is also home to a variety of ferns, including the Ponga, which is considered to be a national symbol of Aotearoa. Additionally, the nursery has a wide range of shrubs, such as the Manuka, which is known for its antibacterial properties and is commonly used in the production of honey. Overall, the Minginui Nursery is an important resource for conservationists and gardeners alike, providing a diverse range of native plant species that are essential for the preservation of Aotearoa's unique ecosystems.

Growing Conditions

Minginui Nursery is an indigenous nursery located in the beautiful Bay of Plenty region of New Zealand, which specialises in the propagation of native plant species. The nursery grows a range of native plants, including Harakeke, Kahikatea, Kanuka, Pohutukawa, and Totara. These plants are grown in optimum conditions, with nursery staff employing various techniques to ensure that they thrive.

The nursery's growing conditions are carefully monitored to ensure that the plants receive the best possible care. The plants are grown in a range of soils, from sandy loam to heavy clay, and are watered regularly to ensure that they are healthy and thriving. It also employs a range of techniques to promote healthy growth, including pruning, fertilizing, and mulching.

In addition to its propagation work, the nursery is also involved in a range of research projects. These projects focus on the conservation and protection of native plant species, as well as the development of new techniques for propagating and growing native plants. 

Planting and harvesting native trees in a nursery in New Zealand involves several steps to ensure that the trees grow successfully. First, it is essential to select the appropriate tree species for the local climate and soil conditions. Once the tree species are chosen, they are propagated in the nursery using seeds or cuttings. These are planted in specially designed trays or pots filled with a suitable growing medium.

The young trees require regular watering and fertilization to promote healthy growth. They must also be protected from pests and diseases. Once the trees reach the appropriate size, they are transplanted into larger containers or directly into the ground.

Harvesting the trees for sale or for planting in the wild involves carefully removing them from their containers or the ground while minimizing damage to the roots. The trees are then transported to their new location, where they are planted and cared for to ensure their survival.

It is important to note that when planting and harvesting native trees in a nursery in New Zealand, it is essential to follow all relevant regulations and guidelines to protect the environment and ensure the long-term sustainability of the native tree species.

Storage Requirements

The storage requirements for native trees in a nursery can vary depending on the species and the stage of growth. Generally, young trees should be stored in a cool and shaded area to prevent them from drying out or becoming too hot. The storage area should also be well-ventilated to prevent the buildup of excess moisture, which can lead to root rot and other issues.

When it comes to specific storage requirements, different species of trees may have different needs. Some trees, for example, might require more moisture than others, while some may need to be stored at specific temperatures. It's important to research the specific requirements of each species and ensure that the storage area meets those needs.

Another important factor to consider is the size of the trees. Larger trees may require more space and support to prevent them from falling over or becoming damaged. They may also require more frequent watering and monitoring to ensure that they remain healthy during storage.

Overall, the storage requirements for native trees in a nursery will depend on a variety of factors, including the species, size, and stage of growth. By researching the specific needs of each type of tree and providing appropriate storage conditions, you can ensure that your trees remain healthy and thrive once they are planted.

Pest and Disease Management

When setting up a native tree nursery in New Zealand, there are several pest and disease management issues that must be considered to ensure the health and success of the trees.

The first issue to consider is the presence of pests, such as caterpillars, aphids, and mites, which can cause damage to the leaves and stems of the trees. To manage these pests, it is important to regularly inspect the trees and remove any affected parts. Additionally, using organic insecticides or introducing natural predators, like ladybugs, can help control the pest population.

The second issue to consider is the presence of diseases, such as Phytophthora, which can cause root rot and other diseases that can be fatal to the trees. To manage these diseases, it is important to ensure proper drainage in the nursery and avoid over watering the trees. Additionally, using disease-resistant tree species and avoiding planting trees in areas where the disease has previously been detected can help prevent the spread of the disease.

Overall, by being proactive in pest and disease management, a native tree nursery in New Zealand can ensure the health and success of their trees, while also promoting the revitalization of native forests and ecosystems.

Compliance

Native tree nurseries in New Zealand must comply with various regulations and standards to ensure the quality of their products and their impact on the environment. Some of the compliance requirements for native tree nurseries in NZ are:

• Biosecurity laws: Nurseries must comply with the Biosecurity Act 1993, which regulates the importation and movement of plants and plant products to prevent the introduction and spread of pests and diseases.
• Resource Management Act: Nurseries must comply with the Resource Management Act 1991, which regulates the use of natural resources, including land, water, and air.
• NZ Plant Producers Incorporated (NZPPI): Nurseries may choose to become members of NZPPI, a voluntary industry association that sets standards and best practices for plant production and biosecurity.
• Plant Variety Rights (PVR): Nurseries must comply with PVR laws, which protect new plant varieties from unauthorised propagation and sale.
• Export requirements: Nurseries that export plants must comply with the relevant export requirements of the destination country.
• Health and Safety: Nurseries must comply with the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015, which sets out requirements for workplace health and safety.

By complying with these regulations and standards, native tree nurseries in NZ can ensure the quality of their products, protect the environment, and contribute to the sustainable use of natural resources.

Case study written by Liliana Clarke in collaboration with Minginui Nursery.

 

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Further reading

Minginui Nursery

The New Zealand Plant Conservation Network

The Department of Conservation	The Department of Conservation manages and protects New Zealand's natural and cultural heritage. They have information on the conservation status of native plants, as well as guidelines for their propagation and management.
The New Zealand Nursery and Garden Industry Association	This industry association represents the interests of New Zealand's nursery and garden industry. They have information on industry standards, as well as resources for starting a new nursery.
Local councils and regional authorities	Local councils and regional authorities may have information on regulations and permits required to start a new nursery in your area.
Local conservation organisations	Local conservation organisations may have information on the demand for native plants in your area, as well as opportunities to collaborate on conservation projects.