The Haakarimata Range extends south of Taupiri along the Waikato River, forming a landscape where northern and southern New Zealand forests meet. This unique mix of habitats once supported some of the highest levels of biodiversity in the country.

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Centuries of human activity and introduced pests have eroded this natural richness — but it can be brought back. The vision of the Haakarimata Restoration Group is to restore and protect the distinctive natural character of the forest and waterways of Haakarimata so they can be understood, valued, preserved, accessed, and enjoyed by the community for generations to come.