Tinui-Whareama Catchment Group

Six years after the idea to form a Tinui Whareama Catchment Group was sparked, it officially formed, with the goal of creating a resilient and thriving community for future generations.

Today the group spans a diverse range of landowners across 53,000 hectares, with their shared connection resulting in unwavering resilience. They represent a diverse range of landowners including lifestyle block owners, sheep and beef farmers, and forestry companies.

Cyclones Hale and Gabrielle left bruising impacts on the local environment, however the group’s ability to join together and recover has been steady and purposeful – ultimately proving that environmental challenges can be transformed into a legacy of health and stability.

Their data-driven strategy includes monitoring 11 sites across the catchment to better understand how to tackle sediment and nutrient loss, while also enhancing habitat for fish and invertebrates.

By increasing the number of dung beetles in the area, the group is boosting soil health, reducing sediment and nutrient runoff, and helping to create thriving farming systems.

Pest control has been a priority, with three initial sites identified for protection due to their high biodiversity value. Pre-monitoring is complete and 200 traps are being installed.

An ongoing Inanga project in conjunction with Whareama School has been a highlight of the group’s work, along with securing funding for a project that aims to enhance the biodiversity of a 4ha wetland.

The group recently held a community showcase where others could learn about their projects, plus participate in a community planting day to support Inanga habitat and stabilise streambanks. This planting was part of a wider restoration effort following cyclone damage.

Looking to the future, the group plans to deepen community engagement, refine their objectives and work with new partners to continue making a positive impact on their environment.