Graeme Helleur

For Graeme Helleur, the plateau at the top of Tākaka Hill is more than a landscape—it is a natural forest corridor, linking two national parks and rich in ecological and cultural significance. Since 1984, Graeme has embraced his role as kaitiaki, recognising both the beauty of this place and his responsibility to protect and restore its biodiversity.

He envisions Tākaka Hill as a patchwork of regenerating bush blocks, gradually reclothing Papatūānuku in her green forest cloak. Guided by the old stories of being Tamariki o te Tane—children of the forest god, Tāne Mahuta—Graeme’s deep love for the land has shaped his long-term commitment to pest control and native forest regeneration.

About 15 years ago, Graeme took up the challenge of possum control, purchasing traps and a battle hammer to reduce their numbers. His efforts, alongside DOC aerial operations, contributed to a major decline in possum populations within the forest corridor. He has also transplanted red beech seedlings into kānuka forest, with some now thriving at heights of 10–15 metres—an enduring sign of successful regeneration.

In 2018, Graeme joined neighbours to establish the Tākaka Hill Biodiversity Group Trust, uniting local landowners in a shared mission of pest and predator control. With funding for stoat traps, the Trust has dramatically reduced predator numbers, allowing native birdlife to return in strength and song.

Graeme’s vision, persistence, and practical action embody the spirit of kaitiakitanga, helping to restore Tākaka Hill’s ngahere and ensure its unique biodiversity thrives for generations to come.