Our location
Rukumoana Marae, 536 Morrinsville-Walton Road, Morrinsville 3371
Kaupapa | Our Purpose
Restoration of habitat along the Topehahae stream.
How We Did It
This project is in the initial stages and is a partnership with and led by Ngāti Haua Iwi Trust and Rukumoana Marae. The project will:
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Build upon our previous experience with farm-based wetland restoration projects but aims to introduce and understand cultural elements and perspectives, with a focus on taonga species, including eels.
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Include monitoring especially of the impact on tuna (eel) health and numbers and will include specific training and capability events at the marae.
The project is supported by Vaipuhi Consulting, Waikato Regional Council, Ministry for Primary Industries, Go Eco, and local landowners.
Outcomes
There is potential to create wetland and tuna ponds, establish native riparian planting to provide shade, reduce water temperatures and increase water quality, creating significant habitat for native species.
Directing waterflow towards ponds or designated wetland areas would improve land use for agricultural purposes, potentially up to 3.5ha of pasture/cropping improvement could be obtained. Providing nature-based solutions for areas which are challenging to farm.
Forming partnership with iwi and establishing working relationships which provide for inclusion of mātauranga Māori and western science into our restoration projects.
What's Next
A plan for implementing the restoration is underway and will include the ongoing control of invasive weeds, fencing, planting, and redirecting water flows to improve tuna habitat. A stepped phased approach is preferred to ensure the restoration can be maintained until plantings are established.
This project is ongoing. If you have an interest in the Topehahae stream and would like to be a part of the restoration discussion, please email Matt Vare from Piako Waihou Catchment Trust at matthew.vare@pwct.org.nz.
