Friends of the Waikanae River
Friends of Waikanae River
The Friends of the Waikanae River (FWR) come from a wide range of groups, organisations and individuals with a shared interest in the achievement of our vision: "That the Waikanae River and its environment are enhanced and maintained in optimum condition for all to enjoy". FWR provide advocacy for educational opportunities so that people may respect and protect the river and its enviroment, and enjoy its natural values and amenities.
They also encourage the recognition and protection of the cultural, historical and geological sites within the river environment.
FWR Contact: Feriel Falconer (Chairperson): r.falconer@paradise.net.nz
FWR continue to do environmental restoration up and down the Waikanae River, between the river mouth and the State highway 1 bridge.
Where can you find the group?
Doing restoration work on the Waikanae River corridor, Waikanae, Kapiti. Check out an aerial photo of the area.
What is the group doing?
Starting planting along the river
The group monitors the management of the Waikanae River for flood protection and liaises regularly with Greater Wellington's flood protection group. They work closely with all interested people to identify opportunities for restoration of the river environment and try and ensure they happen. Over the years, thousands of native plants have been planted along the river corridor and in surrounding reserves.
Current activities
The Friends have set up a nursery where they grow eco-sourced native plants for each planting season in winter. They hold regular working bees every month and are encouraging the community and adjacent residents to join the group and adopt an area close to where they live.
A significant project in which the group has received funding from the Department of Conservation is the restoration of the Oxbow in the lower reaches of the Waikanae River, in conjunction with Kapiti Coast District Council.