A nature-based solution to protect the Waipuna Wetland
Photo credit: Michael Farr
Project Overview
A small natural wetland on Brookvale Road within the Mangateretere sub-catchment is being restored to improve biodiversity and future water quality upstream of the Havelock North drinking water bores.
The wetland is one of the few remaining examples of an ecosystem type that has largely disappeared from Hawke's Bay, where only around 4% of historic wetlands remain. The site contains established indigenous vegetation, including rautahi (Carex geminata) and umbrella sedge (Cyperus ustulatus), and provides habitat for native birdlife including tūī, morepork, kereru and New Zealand Dabchick.
Located within a groundwater recharge area connected to the Havelock North aquifer, the project will use wetland restoration as a nature-based solution to help intercept sediment, nutrients, and contaminants before they enter waterways connected to the aquifer.
Photo credit: Michael Farr
Our stakeholders
Landowners Mike Lawson and Mike Watson supplied the Land for planting
Hawkes Bay Regional Council co-funded the project 50/50 with us
Mangateretere School helped planting on the day
Mr Apple supplied labour and a BBQ for volunteers on the day
Biodiversity Hawkes Bay funded the predator control part of the project through their
Photo credit: Michael Farr
Expected Learnings
The project aims to restore wetland habitat, improve water quality, and increase native biodiversity within the catchment. Monitoring will help identify which species perform best under different wetland conditions and assess the role of restored wetlands in reducing contaminants entering waterways. The project will also provide a practical example of how wetland restoration can contribute to catchment management and drinking water source protection in Hawke's Bay.
Photo credit: Michael Farr
