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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.

Wetlands

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.  

Whaitua

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. 

Safe 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.

Dirty hands

Erosion control

Over the last year we’ve safeguarded over 800 hectares from soil erosion by planting native plants, poplars and willows.

Erosion control

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 

Updated December 19, 2022 at 11:19 AM

Get in touch

Phone:
0800 496 734
Email:
info@gw.govt.nz