We test water quality, and train community groups to monitor and protect their own waterways. This video was made with support from the Remutaka Conservation Trust, and features birdsong courtesy of the Department of Conservation.
Protecting wetlands
We work with landowners to help protect our region’s wetlands. Wetlands are crucial for the health of our environment and ecosystems, are of significant cultural importance for Māori, they help mitigate flooding and climate change, and provide important habitat for a wide variety of plants and animals.
Working with the community
We establish committees which are led by the local community. They have the task of recommending how to improve the quality of our fresh water. The community vision for water combines mātauranga Māori, citizen science, community knowledge, and expert information to fulfil the requirements of government regulations. It’s called ‘Whaitua’, which is the Māori word for space or catchment.
Safe to swim
Our environmental team tests water quality in your area so you know where it’s safe for you and your pets to swim.
Planting
Over 2021 and 2022 we planted over 1.2 million trees. This equates to a plant being put in the ground every four seconds during the planting seasons. Planting helps to conserve soil, improve water quality and remove greenhouse gases.
Erosion control
Over the last year we’ve safeguarded over 800 hectares from soil erosion by planting native plants, poplars and willows.
Latest news
Illegal, hazardous dumping in Hutt River increasing
Late bloom of toxic algae spotted in Te Awa Kairangi/Hutt River
We listen - Poem by Stephen Douglas (PDF 8.4 MB)
Wetland restoration reaches milestone
Heavy sentence for damaging wetlands
Get involved
- To keep up to date on the latest news and updates on events and what’s going on in our region, check our Facebook page or subscribe to our newsletter.
- Our Have Your Say website is the place where you can provide feedback on our plans and projects.
- Join our Citizen Panel, to receive regular surveys on major proposals and projects we are involved with.
- Volunteer to help with one of our projects
- Contact us
Get in touch
- Phone:
- 0800 496 734
- Email:
- info@gw.govt.nz