Report on under-pressure Waikato wetland delivers clear message

An assessment of the Whangamarino Wetland in north Waikato confirms decades of ecological decline and offers a clear roadmap for collaborative action to restore this internationally significant site.

The report identifies a concerning decline in water quality, indigenous wetland habitat, the wetlands' Australasian bittern/matuku population, and cultural values recognised by mana whenua.

These declines are driven by the modified water regime in the wetland, poor water quality, large-scale fire, and invasive species such as koi carp.

For Waikato Tainui, Whangamarino is a taonga, deeply connected to identity and wellbeing, with significant ecological and cultural values.