Source: Auckland Council
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Kirks Bush in Papakura has been transformed from a neglected area into a cherished native forest, thanks to dedicated local volunteers. A new oral history project, led by historian Janine Irvine and funded by Papakura Local Board, is preserving the stories behind this community effort. The project honours the environmental, emotional, and cultural legacy of those who restored Kirks Bush—and calls for new volunteers to continue the work. |
For more than 30 years, a quiet transformation has taken place in Papakura at Kirks Bush. Once known as a place to avoid, this pocket of native forest has slowly become a sanctuary thanks to the tireless efforts of volunteer group Friends of Kirks Bush.
Now through the Kirks Bush Oral History project, those decades of dedication are being formally recognised, recorded, and preserved.
Led by historian Janine Irvine, and funded by Papakura Local Board, the project aims to capture and protect the stories for those who have played a role in reclaiming and restoring Kirks Bush.
Papakura Local Board Chair Brent Catchpole says local iwi – Te Ākitai Waihoua recognised the importance of preserving the stories and contributions of the Friends of Kirk Bush.
“The board are pleased to see the oral history come to fruition; Kirks Bush is a living taonga nestled in the heart of Papakura with a rich history and fond memories for local residents.
“I commend the Friends of Kirks Bush and all the community partners involved for their dedication to preserving this very special urban ngāhere that we all get to enjoy today.”
The oral histories are more than a record of volunteer labour; they’re a testament to community resilience and long-term commitment. From those who have spent countless hours pulling weeds, removing graffiti, advocating for improvements and kauri protection, this project is a chance to have their experiences formally acknowledged and archived for future generations.
In the Oral History of Kirks Bush, Muriel Nacey describes how rewarding it was to see people become more confident about walking in the Bush as conditions improved.
For Margaret Gane Kirks Bush offered her a kind of pause or reset from daily life. “They speak to me about something far bigger than me,” she describes, recalling the feeling of walking beneath the tall tree canopy.
“I come out and my life is so much more in perspective. Those trees have lived through things I have not seen.” she says
Kirks Bush survival amid Auckland’s urban sprawl is rare, and its transformation into a place of safety, learning, and connection is thanks to those who cared enough to act.
The Oral History of Kirks Bush ensures that this care is not forgotten. It recognises the decades of quiet mahi and honours those who made a long-term commitment to the land.
Many of the founding friends of Kirks Bush have now retired or passed on, and new volunteers are needed to carry this important work forward, to care for and nurture this very special place.
Become a Friend of Kirks Bush by volunteering today!
Contact Margeret Gane
Phone: 022 158 8064
Email: margaretjgane@gmail.com
Listen here: Friends of Kirks Bush Collection – Oral History – Kura
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