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… 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… 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… 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… 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… 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:… 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… Read More
Celebrating the women protecting these waterways. Every year on the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, we’re reminded of the power of diverse voices in shaping a healthier planet. At WAI Wānaka, we’re proud to have been guided by many talented women whose curiosity, rigour, and care… Read More
If you can lap it, you can protect it. As part of our summer campaign, we’re speaking with locals whose lives are shaped by the lakes and rivers around them. In 2025, swimmer Livi Schmid took on the greatest challenge of her career, swimming the entire 44-kilometre length… Read More
The Upper Clutha Rural Strategy 2030 marks a major step forward for our rural communities. Developed collaboratively by farmers across the Upper Clutha and supported by WAI Wānaka through MPI funding, the strategy sets a clear direction for strengthening rural businesses, enhancing environmental stewardship, and building resilient catchment groups. … Read More