Distinct benefits from improved waterways

The Waiharakeke Stream, which borders the northern boundary of Opare Forest near Kerikeri in Northland, has deep spiritual significance to local iwi, Ngāti Hine.

The stream provides a migration path for tuna (eels), a traditional food source for the local people, with the marae of Ngāti Hine having a reputation in the North for having the best,
cleanest and the sweetest tuna on their tables. As kaitiaki (or guardian) of the forest, we have a responsibility to ensure that the river is free from obstructions, so the tuna can move into
the upper catchments of the stream.

This year, Opare Forest managers, PF Olsen, have undertaken an extensive project to clear the Waiharakeke Stream of crack willow, a pest weed species, which had invaded the stream.
Crack willow has a re-sprouting and suckering habit, and with rapid growth, it creates dense thickets, replacing native riparian species. The quick growing weed created debris dams
in the stream, causing obstructions which made the stream inaccessible for tuna, as well as creating swimming hazards and increased flood risk for the local township.

In addition, the native forest upstream performs an important riparian function by providing stream bank stabilisation, reducing water temperatures and creating a habitat for
other riparian species. Aerial surveys were used to identify high-risk debris dams and, with input from representatives from the environmental group Ngā Tirairaka o Ngāti Hine and the Northland Regional Council, which were then removed with minimal disturbance to the stream bed.

This ongoing work will increase water quality and improve stream habitat, as well as reducing the risks at downstream swimming areas and mitigate flood risk for the local community.

Recently, we were pleased to provide access to children from Moerewa School to visit the Waiharakeke Stream as part of a river health project. Their monitoring indicates the health of the awa (river) is improving.