Wangaloa Mine Reserve
The former Wangaloa Opencast Mine operated from 1945 to 1989, producing around 750,000 tonnes of coal.
The truly unique and scenic site is covered with well established native bush which is home to significant native bird populations.
Mining left a large pit with steep sides to the north and south-east, and a small hill of waste rock in the center and to the south-west of the pit.
This created a lake which drains through a natural wetland area to the east and south.
Solid Energy has been rehabilitating the site since 2002 with the aim to create a biologically diverse area which becomes self-sustaining. This work involved earthworks, weed and pest control, predator fencing, planting more than 70,000 seedlings. Planting and monitoring. is ongoing
COMMUNITY AGREEMENT
Solid Energy and Kaitangata Black Gold Community Inc have an ageement to develop a must visit recreation reserve.
Solid Energy will provide funding of $100,000, spread over five years to support the installation of fixtures and maintain the park area.
Kaitangata Black Gold will manage the installation and delivery of same.
If you should have interest in supporting this project with ideas and suggestions or could contribute some very valuable hands on work towards the development, please contact:
Jean Proctor
Email - team@kaitangatablackgold.co.nz
Or call Jean at - Tall Poppy Event Management - 0273294567
WORK CURRENTLY UNDERWAY OR PLANNED FOR IMMEDIATE FUTURE
• Car park and vehicle turnaround area - September 2011
• Walking and mountain bike tracks - some are currently established
• Picnic tables, seating, boardwalks and handrails 2011
• Link to mining history by retaining mining relics and sites of interest.
• Permanent and self contained toilet - 2012
• Extra seedlings and plantings for certain areas - regular and ongoing
• New fencing to limit vehicular access - 2011