East Otago Catchment Group

What began as a localised conversation has since ignited a sprawling environmental movement that unites landowners across East Otago under a single, ambitious vision.

The East Otago Catchment Group started in 2019 when a handful of farmers decided to improve their winter grazing practices. Today, the group oversees a network that spans five key catchments – Waikouaiti, Post Office Creek/Waipaku, Pleasant/Te Hakapupu, Stony Creek and Shag/Waihemo.

The Farming with Confidence programme provides the foundation of their work. Supported by MPI’s Integrated Farm Planning fund, the initiative involves farmers working alongside experts to develop robust farm plans that meet current and potential future regulations.

Another successful project is a trout-removal project in the Upper Shag tributaries that has resulted in a staggering 330% increase in the rare Taieri Flathead Galaxias.

They’re collaborators on Te Hakapupu restoration project which is improving water quality and biodiversity in the Pleasant/Te Hakapupu catchment. This project involves working with the Council and Kati Huirapa Runaka ki Puketeraki to improve fish passages and plant large riparian areas.

In addition, the group is working with the Pleasant/Te Hakapupu community to develop a pest management strategy, supported with funding from the Ministry for the Environment.

Community connection is key to the group’s approach. For example, in the Waipaku/Post Office Creek Catchment, water quality monitoring is multi-generational – involving local schools, iwi and Enviroschools.

Community planting days are an important part of the catchment group’s activities, including annual planting at sites including Andersons Lagoon with Palmerston Primary School so students can return and see the positive impact they are having.

With a dedicated coordinator since 2022 and taking a strategic approach, the East Otago Catchment Group is moving toward its goal of creating an environmental destination. One that features swimmable rivers and thriving biodiversity, driven by a community that is protective, empowered and connected to the land.