Makarewa Headwaters Catchment Group 

2025 Southland Catchment Group Showcase: Makarewa Headwaters Catchment Group 

This group of Southland farmers is fostering collaboration and spearheading projects as they work to protect the watercourses in the Makarewa headwaters catchment and the health of surrounding land. 

With a focus on connecting and creating shared values, Makarewa Headwaters Catchment Group has become a collective voice for the community.  

Their aim is to support local farmers implement sustainable farming practices, improve water quality, and comply with environmental regulations. Ultimately, they want to protect and enhance the Makarewa River and tributaries with a community-wide approach that includes sound farming practices and active pest management. 

The committee has representatives from eight farms, with support for their activities extending much further. More than 90% of residents and landowners are participating and contributing to their biggest initiative – the Revival Project.   

Launched in 2023, the project aims to control the devastating impact of feral deer and pigs on the native ecosystem, including water quality. Extensive research has been carried out, providing a clear picture of the pest problem and its consequences. Over and above regular private hunting, the Revival Project and awareness of it has led to the culling of more than 600 feral deer and numerous pigs. 

Another catchment group initiative was the LUCI Ag Project which used sophisticated modelling to identify hotspots for nutrient and sediment runoff. The findings highlighted the importance of responsible fertiliser use and soil management, and the impact of sediment runoff from both pastoral land and within native bush. The latter was a key driver toward establishing the Revival Project. 

The group’s community planting project has grown significantly to include raising native seeds for planting along a rural road verge.