Once a patchwork of isolated efforts, the Te Wairoa catchment is now a model for coordinated, landscape-scale conservation. From pest plant control to kōkako protection, over 535 properties are working together to restore the mauri of the Wairoa River and its surrounding landscapes.
This year their collective effort was recognised as recipients of the Auckland Catchment Group Showcase Award at the 2025 Ballance Farm Environment Awards, a reflection of the hard mahi and leadership shown across the catchment. Action driven by the community joining forces to trap pests, remove weeds, protect waterways, and bring native bush back to life.
And the impact is clear:
A record 2,024 possums reported this year
133 ferrets trapped, along with stoats and weasels
Four water quality ‘waka’ deployed to monitor the health of the awa
Dozens of locals equipped with tools and knowledge to control pest plants
712 native plants sold through nursery days
Best of all, what once was quiet is now alive with birdsong. Wildlife is returning, with sightings of kākā, tomtits, kererū, and even matuku in neighbouring wetlands And more than the award, the rewards have been remarkable: Children learning about native fish and koi carp, neighbours connecting at community events, and families waking to the call of native birds. With fresh funding from Auckland Council and the Franklin Local Board, Friends of Te Wairoa are entering a new phase; employing a dedicated role to accelerate riparian restoration and deepen collaboration with mana whenua, Ngāi Tai ki Tāmaki.
“Together, we’re not just restoring a river. We’re restoring connection; to place, to nature, and to one another.”
