Stay connected with The Manuherekia Voice – our collective newsletter bringing you updates from the Manuherekia Catchment Group (MCG), the Thomsons Project,
and the Waiora Manuherekia Project.

Photo: Orkney Wetland
From the GM: Key Milestones and What’s Next
It’s been a busy couple of months across the catchment since our last newsletter. We recently hosted our AGM, giving members a chance to reflect on progress and future priorities.
We welcomed confirmation of water consent extensions, recognising this provides time for more evidence gathering on the impact on the river of implementing our catchment management plan. Note this extension applies only to consent to take, not for dams, diversions or discharges. We’re working with ORC on this – more information below.
Waiora Manuherekia has been strengthening relationships. We’re organising an Agritech Day in the Manuherekia, hosted at Matakanui on Friday 11 October. You’ll find more details here.
We’ve also been busy creating Wetland Management Plans to help landowners protect and restore wetlands – more information below.
Thomsons Project has been in a planning phase – and the first event is planting 200 carex plans on Saturday 11 October. We’d love to see you there!
Thank you for your ongoing support. Whether it’s through joining workshops, taking part in environmental projects, or simply staying connected, every effort helps build a healthier river and a stronger future for our catchment.
Stay tuned for updates on the exciting developments in our catchment, and thank you for your ongoing support!
Clare Hadley, General Manager, Manuherekia Catchment Group.

MCG is all about farmers leading the way in creating sustainable solutions for our catchment, especially concerning water quantity and quality. While we began with a focus on sustainable water practices, our work now extends far beyond that. Together, as a community, we are working with New Zealand's best experts to ensure that what we do benefits the environment, the river, and the community. Our initiatives include the Thomsons Project and the Waiora Manuherekia Project, all contributing to environmental resilience and vibrant, thriving communities.
Also in this edition, we feature articles about:
Hosting MP Rachel Brooking
Consent Extensions Confirmed – and a catch
MCG Membership
AGM Wrap-Up
Stronger Penalties for Environmental Breaches
Soil Health Monitoring Programme


Both the Waiora Manuherekia and Thomsons Projects fall under the umbrella of MCG, amplifying our collective efforts towards better water quality and biodiversity. The Thomsons Project is a farmer-led initiative working towards improving water quality and supporting biodiversity in the region.
In this edition, we feature articles about:
Planting at Thomsons
What’s Next for Thomsons
On the Trail with Traps and Tricks


Both the Waiora Manuherekia and Thomsons Projects fall under the umbrella of MCG, amplifying our collective efforts towards better water quality and biodiversity. The Waiora Manuherekia Project is focused on connecting our community to the Manuherekia River and enhancing its health through various environmental initiatives.
In this edition, we feature articles about:
AgriTech in the Manuherekia hosted at Matakanui
Fresh Water Farm Plans
Learn How to Check Stream Health with SHMAK
New Resource: Generic Wetland Management Plans
