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: Manuherekia River, Loop Road
From the GM: Key Milestones and What’s Next
We’re excited to bring you another edition of Manuherekia Voice.
Waiora Manuherekia is thrilled to continue the work which began in 2024, with a focus on supporting water quality. Agritech in the Manuherekia was held on 10th October which was a great success. Maintaining the areas where willows were removed and plants planted last year has been our focus while we await Government direction on freshwater reforms.
A field day showcasing Wetland Restoration in the Manuherekia will be held 27th February at Hills Creek Station and Merino Ridges - you can find details below.
The Thomsons Catchment Project has been busy adjusting to their new normal, with active volunteers visiting Orkney Wetland regularly ensuring that any willow sprouting is removed and pests are managed. In late 2025 they hit a massive milestone of 50 predators kept out of the wetland! We’ve also had the first round of works done under our Ecofund grant to keep the wetland flourishing. The committee continues to meet regularly to keep an eye on what’s next.
Meanwhile, the Manuherekia Catchment Group continues to represent landowners across the region, supporting practical improvements, advocating for good policy, and working in partnership with agencies, iwi and stakeholders. Late last year, we communicated with members regarding our discussions with Otago Regional Council on consent extensions and what that means for us - read more on that further in this newsletter.
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:
Consent Extensions following RMA Reform Announcement
MCG Membership
Sign up to hear from Manuherikia River Ltd directly
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:
Wetland Restoration Field Day
Fresh Water Farm Plans
Waste Minimisation
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:
World Wetland Day
Planting Day at Orkney Wetland
