| Abstract |
We present the findings from our 2022-2023 update to the inventory of geothermal habitats in the Waikato Region. This is an updated inventory of the current distribution, condition, and extent of geothermal vegetation and habitats in the Waikato Region, where almost 74% of New Zealand’s geothermal systems occur. Forty-six sites with geothermal vegetation, within 14 Geothermal Systems were identified, mapped, described, and assessed for significance. For each site, the vegetation, site boundaries, and location relative to other sites were mapped. Changes in site condition, management actions, and threats were all considered. Since the last inventory study in 2014, an additional 142.8 hectares of geothermal vegetation has been mapped, however most of this area is the result of discovery of additional areas of existing habitat as the quality of aerial photography continues to improve. Real increase in vegetation extent was noted for two sites covering only relatively small areas. Overall, the extent of geothermal vegetation across the Waikato Region has been relatively stable in the last ten years. Minor reductions have occurred at some sites due to increases in pest plant cover and, in some cases, from herbicide use on site margins. The condition of many sites has improved as a result of ecological restoration effort. However, some sites are in poorer condition since the last survey, mainly as a result of the expansion of pest plant infestations. Many geothermal areas have been fenced in the past 10+ years, but in many cases where no other restoration effort has taken place this has resulted in a significant increase in blackberry. |