TAHI
North Island, New Zealand
TAHI
Estate
Since april 2011
Maori for ‘first place of plenty’, Ohuatahi in New Zealand’s North Island is home to the secluded sanctuary, TAHI. A model for commercially-minded conservation, eight hundred acres of golden sands and South Pacific surf meet estuaries, wetlands, and native forest sit alongside a luxurious hospitality offering integrated with a profound respect for its natural surroundings. TAHI is a certified Global Ecosphere Retreat®.
After years of neglect as a run-down cattle farm, the last two decades have seen TAHI completely regenerated, with 8.8 million native trees planted and twenty wetlands restored. Native birdlife, which had previously vanished, thrives, with over 71 species of native birds, including the endangered Australian Brown Bittern, now spotted here. A sense of place remains deeply woven into TAHI, with Maori crafts and artefacts, books on Maori and settler history displayed in guest villas, and activities such as guided walks led by the local Maori community which bring to life the area’s ancient trees and traditional myths and legends.
CONSERVATION
Most of TAHI’s original wetlands have been restored: 96 acres of wetlands and 11.1 acres of lakes to date.
Since 2004, when restorations began, the number of native species has increased from 20 to 71, including 25 rare and endangered birds.
COMMUNITY
TAHI prioritises enterprises run by Pataua residents for service and support needs and provides local employment opportunities.
TAHI maintains good relationships with the Pataua community and the Te Waiariki Maori people and promotes sustainable livelihoods and healthy lifestyles.
CULTURE
TAHI’s owners are well-versed in Maori culture, and guest villas showcase Maori artefacts and books on Maori history.
Guest activities include guided walks where the significance of ancient trees and customs is explained by a member of the neighbouring Maori community.
COMMERCE
100% of the proceeds from TAHI brands are invested in biodiversity projects.
As part of their sustainable environmental management and conservation model, TAHI now produces and markets Manuka honey.
TAHI’s Highlights
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The Bee Programme brings bee hives and bee knowledge to schools. TAHI shares knowledge locally and further afield.
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Wetlands were drained on the land at TAHI when it was a cattle farm. Now, they have restored more than 343,000m² -They provide a home for birds, fish, insects, and absorb carbon.
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Since its founding, TAHI’s restoration efforts have seen grow from 20 to 71 native bird species, including 25 rare and endangered birds. They are essential to the ecosystem, playing vital roles in pollination, seed dispersal, and pest control.
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TAHI is a proud partner of the QE II Trust and the Dune Protection Trust in conserving dune vegetation and safeguarding the Pimelea Villosa Population. Sand dunes not only absorb carbon dioxide and help reduce greenhouse gas emissions but also provide a haven for diverse life, from stabilising plants to endangered birds and captivating reptiles.
