Kāwhia Beachcare Group
Kāwhia Beachcare Group
Onepu Trust has led efforts in the protection and restoration of the Kāwhia coast since 2008. In the past, restoration plantings have been undertaken at Ocean Beach’s foredune and backdune areas, around Maketū Marae, Takapūwāhia and Te Ārai o te Wiwini, in collaboration with local schools, community volunteers, Department of Corrections, Tainui Kāwhia Inc (TKI) and Waikato Regional Council.
In 2018, Te Taiao o Kāwhia Moana was formed in response to concerns by the community about the environmental damage caused by vehicles in the inner harbour. This multi-stakeholder group includes representation from Oparau Station Trust, Tainui Kāwhia Inc, Maketū Marae, Onepu Trust, Waipapa marae, Kāwhia Moana Native Nursery, Te Maika Trust and passionate individuals from the community, with support from Kāwhia Community Board, Ōtorohanga District Council and Waikato Regional Council. Te Taiao o Kāwhia Moana aims to promote and protect Kāwhia Harbour’s rich and diverse ecosystems through community-led initiatives.
2023 restoration and planting season wrap-up
The jewel in the crown for Kāwhia this year has to be the final planting on Te Ahurei, the historic whare wananga site where the Tainui waka rests at Maketū Marae. The hill looks great, so a big thanks to all the planters and also to Ray and Corrections PD personnel for help with the ongoing weeding.
Of great concern to the beach patrol crew was pollution from vehicles being stuck at Te Arai o Te Wiwini. Two of the five vehicles stranded this year were in the harbour: one overnight and the other for two days.
The Kāwhia crew also lent a helping hand at many other west coast plantings, and were the hosts of the 2024 annual Coastal Restoration Trust Conference.
- Te Ahurei - 2 Coastcare events; 1450 plants (800 wiwi and 650 native grasses, shurbs and trees); 29 volunteers; 101.5 volunteer hours.
- Tom French Grove - 1 Coastcare event; 320 plants; 5 volunteers; 10 volunteer hours.
- The group also assisted with plantings at Nukuhakari, Kiretehere, Marokopa and Port Waikato.
Looking ahead
- Onepu trust will be undertaking beach patrols over the summer to educate beach users about caring for our coastal environment.
Contact: Waikato Regional Council or Horahaere Scott
Email: [Enable JavaScript to view protected content] or [Enable JavaScript to view protected content]
Phone: 0800 800 401
For questions relating to government policy or the coastal management plan contact [Enable JavaScript to view protected content]