Road to Nature Trial: October 2020 Update

N A T U R E' S ROAD

T r i a l S i t e s U p d at e | October 2020

A Recap

On The Trial; The Road to Nature trial investigates the potential to improve our roading infrastructure in Te Urewera, test innovative environmentally friendly ways to resurface SH38, while improving good access and safe surfacing.

A clear opportunity

f o r u s to

uphold our

responsibi lities

as Kaitiaki.

Many promising learnings were taken from the two trial s i te s a t A w a a w a r o a (Rosie Bay)

Waikaremoana and Manapae in Ruataahuna.

Even though the Awaawaroa (Rosie Bay) site was accidentally graded by a Council Contractor the 2 year trial has still been considered a success.

As the pitch bound material was removed during this accidental grading it has made the site ‘invalid’ for further monitoring. This means that this trial site has been closed and will be repaired.

Some of the positive outcomes from the trial were;

• Tall oil pitch is an effective dust suppressant which is most effective when applied in the process used in the trial, with stabilization equipment.

• Minimal amount of maintenance was required in the first 15months.

• Any potholes can be mended by a pre-made mix using the local material with tall oil pitch. The recipe is made available which enables Tuhoe to repair future potholes.

• Local whanau have been trained at pothole repairs and will be able to undertake pothole maintenance and care.

The trial is continuing at Manapae and these are some of the next steps;

• The Manapae site is still showing good life after it’s 2nd year but is now due for maintenance.

• Initiate maintenance schedule during the busier summer period.

• Carry out research for a recycle trial.

• If findings are positive it could mean very little to no new, foreign material being introduced to Te Urewera.

• After research and assessment is complete, conduct the recycling trial before next winter.