In our previous blog, we explored WAI Wānaka's on-farm biodiversity monitoring programme, where farmers across the Upper Clutha are collecting data to further understand the health of the natural systems on their land. But understanding the environment is only the first step. The next challenge is turning that knowledge into action.

At WAI Wānaka, we believe that when people feel connected to nature, they’re more likely to care for it. That’s one of the reasons we’re so excited to announce our new partnership with internationally acclaimed artist and Wānaka resident, Andrew Tischler. Inspired by the lakes, rivers and landscapes of the region he calls home, Andrew... Read more

Across the Upper Clutha, farmers are taking a closer look at the natural systems that support their land, from the soil beneath their feet to the streams that flow through their properties. WAI Wanaka’s on-farm environmental monitoring programme helps them do it.   The programme is supported by the Ministry for Primary Industries through the Catchment Extension Services Fund and supports... Read more

The Studentship Programme, supported by the University of Otago – Ōtākou Whakaihu Waka and Lincoln University – Te Whare Wānaka o Aoraki, supports students across undergraduate and postgraduate study to build careers in science while contributing to Aotearoa’s freshwater knowledge base.  In this Q&A, former summer scholarship student Emma reflects on how her experience with WAI Wānaka shaped her skills, confidence and career direction – and why programmes like this matter for students, communities and freshwater research.  WAI:... Read more

An opinion piece, written by Ben Youngman, WAI’s Science and Research Lead. International Day for Biological Diversity tends to arrive with a familiar parade of charismatic megafauna. Whales breach. Pandas chew bamboo with suspiciously good media training. Somewhere, a tiger stares moodily into the middle distance. Meanwhile, beneath the surface of Lake Wānaka, a freshwater invertebrate... Read more

Updated as of 25 May: LINZ have said the Diquat spraying has been delayed another 2 weeks. With a further update coming Monday 8 June. From Monday 18 May to Friday 19 June 2026, a targeted aquatic weed control programme using diquat herbicide is scheduled to take place at several locations around Lake Wānaka, including... Read more

Rebecca (Bex) and Ben Trotter, alongside their young family, are part of a new generation of Upper Clutha farmers redefining what modern farming can look like. Based just outside Wānaka, in Luggate, their journey from traditional beef farming to a highly diversified, community-connected operation reflects both innovation and a deep commitment to environmental stewardship –... Read more

Written by Lottie Oatts & Jose Cranfield Stormwater within WAI Wānaka’s Urban Strategy It has been a particularly rainy summer here in the Upper Clutha, making it a good time to revisit what stormwater actually is – and why it matters. Stormwater is rainwater that runs off roofs, roads, and other hard surfaces. As it... Read more

Welcome to our ‘Adopt a Drain’ Autumn Newsletter The summer has flown by, and we can’t believe it’s the time for our Autumn edition already! We’ve got some exciting events coming up, listed at the bottom of the newsletter so we hope to see some familiar faces at these!  Ahead of the leaves turning golden brown throughout our communities,... Read more

Each March, the Wānaka A&P Show transforms the lakefront into a vibrant celebration of rural life, innovation, community spirit, and the deep connections that sustain regional New Zealand. This year on Friday 13th & Saturday 14th of March, the Gallaway Cook Allan Agri Exchange returns as one of the Show’s most future‑focused spaces—a buzzing hub where farmers, innovators,... Read more

Using the Lakes Responsibly This Summer This summer, we’ve been inviting everyone to use the lakes responsibly. Whether you are a local, a visitor or a holiday homeowner, small everyday actions can help protect these precious waterways — while continuing to enjoy all they have to offer. Photo: Franzi, WAI’s Community and Education Activator at... Read more

Nestled between the Motatapu River and the lower Fern Burn, Glendhu Station stands as one of the Upper Clutha’s most compelling examples of intergenerational land stewardship and progressive rural leadership. Under the guidance of landowner John McRae, the station has evolved from a traditional family farm into a diversified, future‑focused rural enterprise—balancing business viability, recreation,... Read more