BACKGROUND

In 2020, the Pōrangahau and Maharakeke catchments formed the Watch Our Water Maharakeke and Pōrangahau (WOW MAP) Catchment Group. In 2023, the two catchments came together applied for a TLC Demonstration Grant for a riparian restoration project in Takapau to cover an area of 600 meters where willows had recently been mulched by HBRC.  As well as environmental conservation, the project also aimed to inspire positive change and foster a sense of environmental responsibility within the community. 

The objectives of this project include raising awareness, community involvement and environmental conservation.

COMMUNITY PLANTING IN ACTION

In July 2024, the Takapau community came together in an extraordinary show of support, with 120 volunteers helping to plant 3,000 native plants along both sides of the Pōrangahau Stream. We were overwhelmed by the incredible turnout, which included school parents and teachers, local businesses, farmers, Hawke's Bay Regional Council, and members of the Takapau community.

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Our partners played crucial roles in this project. Central Natives provided the plants and designed the planting plan, while Floating Peaks supplied wool weed mats, Wool Life NZ provided the biodegradable pegs and Advance Landscape Systems provided plant guards.

INVOLVING YOUNG PEOPLE

15 Year 8 students from Takapau School not only helped plant but also participated in an educational session at the site led by Enviroschools Te Matau ā Māui, learning about stream health and biodiversity.

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