No Man’s Land to Hillside Sanctuary
- Written by
- Dee Ellwood
The Crusaders Behind Te Puna Quarry Park
Like something out of a storybook – ‘desolate wasteland turned magical garden’ – 23 years ago Tauranga locals opened pathways for one of the region’s most renowned parks, Te Puna Quarry Park.
However, unlike fairy-tale scripture, the journey from nothing to stunning, has been no easy feat.
“We battled for three years to get the rights to turn the old quarry into a park – it was tough going,” explains Shirley Sparks, local heroine and Quarry Park founder. “We had to go through a myriad of hurdles but we stood firm with our vision. Today the council are thrilled – well they would be, wouldn’t they! We have converted 32 hectares into this incredible park for all to visit and explore, and at no cost to them!”
Watch it grow
Spread across an entire hillside, the majority of the gardens and walkways encompass approximately one third of the park, “The rest we have converted to native bush which we continue to cut walking tracks into,” explains chief gardener and Quarry Park co-founder, Jo Dawkins.
Meandering pathways lead to various garden pockets: the orchids, to cactus’, butterfly sanctuary, magnolia glen, nikau and tropicals, Park maple grove, to name a few – and all with panoramic Bay of Plenty views.
“When we first began planting, we had no real idea of just how far up the quarry we’d go. Then, one day I drew a line in the hillside and said, ‘No further’, well then of course we started to spread around and further down from that point,” chuckles Jo. “We said this’ll be a 100 year project, but it’s really a forever project.”
Action packed
And with a strong team of 35 volunteers meeting every Tuesday – and a smaller crew on a Thursday – to dig, plant, weed and transport, the Quarry Park is very much alive with energy.
“It’s a happy place – there’s no crying allowed here,” says Jo.
“Most of us volunteers are well into our 70s and 80s, it’s truly magic to be a part of – it keeps us active!” Quarry Park secretary, Dulcie Artus agrees.
“Seeing your ideas take shape is so rewarding. Our new amphitheatre will be completed this month – just in time for Outdoor Carols by Candlelight and Twilight Concerts.”
The Te Puna Quarry Park is open year-round, rain, hail or sunshine – gates close at dusk – situated on 110 Quarry Road, Te Puna, Tauranga. There is no cost to visit, picnic and explore, however donations are appreciated.