WAI in the community
It’s been a difficult time for many recently – with droughts affecting our region whilst floods have devastated communities in the north.
A question that has been on our mind is how we, as a catchment and a country, learn from these events to prepare for the effects of climate change and build resilient environments for our communities?
One thing we have learnt is that we are stronger when we work together towards shared goals, and we’re privileged to live in a community with so many passionate groups and individuals working towards a better future.
Below we cover some upcoming events in our community where WAI and other groups will be sharing learnings and connecting people to work towards a better future for our basin.
We are currently looking for volunteers to assist cyclone affected farmers with flood recovery. If you have fencing experience and want to help out, please get in touch with Prue Kane (prue@waiwanaka.nz or 022 677 8141).
UPCOMING EVENTS
Join us at the Wānaka A&P Show
This year, you can visit us at both ends of the show. At Our Place, behind the Presidents Tent, and at Our Land & Water – K30 near the kids play zone in Pembroke Park. See the map here.
Join WAI alongside other community groups at OUR PLACE – the tent beside the A&P office. This interactive space features ongoing activities and scheduled workshops for you and the entire whānau over the two days of the show.
Join the Knowledge into Action for Te Taiao team at the Our Land & Water tent (site K30) to learn about this programme to support our connection to place and a better future for our environment and community.
Maintenance Mondays at Kirimoko
The newly established Kirimoko Action Group have set up monthly plant maintenance events based around the Kirimoko trails. If you live in Kirimoko, or love the area, come along to lend a hand and meet some new people.
The next event is on Monday, 13th of March from 4pm-7pm.
Click here to learn about urban action groups and how to get involved.
Take part in World Water Day
If you’re interested to hear how you can play a role in understanding our lake, join us to learn how to use secchi disks. Secchi disks are a citizen science tool that allow members of our community to measure both water clarity and temperature in our lakes.
When: 22nd of March from 4pm-5pm
Where: Main wharf of Lake Wānaka
All welcome. B.Y.O. life jacket, kayak or paddleboard if possible. Lakelands will kindly be offering some equipment to those who need it. To RSVP, please email kelly@waiwanaka.nz
FOR OUR FRESHWATER
From Pollution to Solutions
Recent rainfall in our catchment has been short, sharp and infrequent, and you may have noticed stormwater runoff heading into our lakes and rivers. From planting harakeke to washing your bike on the lawn, we’ve compiled a list of practical ways you and your whānau can make small changes that have big impacts on our waterways.
Visit our Instagram and Facebook pages to access our stormwater pollution tips.