January Newsletter 2025
Kā mihi o te tau hou – Happy new year!
As we dive into 2025, it’s clear local waterways need our attention more than ever. Lake Wānaka was recently downgraded from ‘excellent’ to ‘high’ water quality in a report from NIWA to ORC. A shift that reflects challenges we’ve been aware of for some time. But with challenges come opportunities, and throughout our community is a growing movement of individuals and groups stepping up to make a difference.
If there’s one thing we know for sure, it’s that the health of local lakes and rivers relies on us all, working together. There’s no single thing to blame and no single fix, but when we act collectively, change is possible.
In this month’s newsletter, we’re highlighting the ongoing environmental monitoring happening on-farm, a Wānaka local’s big swim for water health, an important reminder for all water users, and more.
Biodiversity and freshwater monitoring is back
We’re kicking off the year with fresh energy and on the ground action. Biodiversity and freshwater monitoring is back in full swing, and we’re excited to be working with 14 rural landowners on this project. Together, we’re monitoring key indicators like water quality, bird populations, soil health, and more.
We’re also fortunate to have Maddy, an intern from the University of Otago, join us this summer to help with this mahi.
“This internship is closely related to my studies, as it provides me with a hands-on opportunity to apply my knowledge of ecology, conservation, and biodiversity. Through on-farm biodiversity monitoring tasks like aquatic sampling, soil assessments, eDNA sampling, and data analysis, I can apply my academic learnings to local conservation work.”
Know a local farmer who might be interested in joining this project, or one of our other on-farm environmental initiatives? Email louise@waiwanaka.nz to learn more.
Our work supporting rural landowners is currently funded by the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) through our On-farm Environmental Support Programme.
Counting down to Livi’s 44km swim of Lake Wānaka
24-year-old swimmer Livi Schmid is taking on the challenge of a lifetime: swimming the entire 44km length of Lake Wānaka, from Makarore / Makarora to the Wānaka lakefront. In order for her swim to count, she won’t be able to touch or rest on any boats throughout the day.
Leading up to her February swim, Livi is raising funds for WAI Wānaka and the Wānaka Swim Club, combining our shared missions of protecting water and empowering the next generation to enjoy and care for the deepwater lakes.
“Swimming has always been a part of my life, and over the years, the water has taught me about resilience, dedication, and community. This February, I will take on the greatest challenge of my career: a 44km swim to raise funds for freshwater conservation and our next generation of swimmers.”
Follow Livi’s journey on Instagram: @liv.toswim and support her incredible fundraiser here. GO LIVI!
Do your part: Check, Clean, Dry
A single drop of water is all it takes for aquatic pests to spread.
Lagarosiphon, didymo and lake snow are the three major freshwater pests present in Otago waterways. These introduced species disrupt the natural ecosystem and diminish recreational opportunities, clogging boats and water filters.
When you’re out on the water this summer – boating, paddle boarding, kayaking, or swimming – make sure you always Check, Clean and Dry any clothing and equipment before moving between waterways. This prevents freshwater pests from hitchhiking from one place to another.
1.CHECK that your vessel and equipment are free of aquatic pests.
2.CLEAN equipment using 10% dishwashing detergent mixed with water and leave item wet for 10 minutes.
3.DRY your gear thoroughly (recommended time is 48 hours) before moving between waterways.
For more information on aquatic pests in the Upper Clutha, click here.
To learn more about Check Clean Dry, click here
Knowledge is power
Stories, recommended podcasts and more.
WAI blog: Swimming for a Cause: Livi’s 44km Challenge Across Lake Wānaka
ODT article: Whakatipu and Wānaka Water Quality is ‘Good’ – Be Worried
Quick reference: Clean Check Dry Pocket Guide
Video: Monster Child Short Film Awards Presents ‘ MAHIKA KAI’
Video: Here The Wild Things Are (City Nature Challenge)
Tedx Talks: Wetlands: The Superheroes of the Natural World
Kā mihi nui!
We are incredibly grateful for the ongoing support from our community who help make our work possible. Each newsletter, we’ll use this space to shine a light on two local contributors:
Van Walt Ltd.
We don’t always have access to the equipment needed for monitoring local waterways during our community events. Dirk and his team at Van Walt Ltd. have kindly offered their time and instruments at our ‘Get Your Feet Wet’ sessions time and time again, helping us collect data with ease alongside volunteers.
Get involved in our upcoming events
2 February 11am-2:30pm: World Wetlands Day at Bullock Creek
11 February 9am-11am: Microplastics lab session – spaces limited, email getinvolved@waiwanaka.nz to express interest.
22 February 10am-12pm: Beach clean-up at Waterfall Creek