Stay connected with The Manuherekia Voice - our collective newsletter bringing you updates from the Manuherekia Catchment Group (MCG), the Thomsons Catchment Project,
and the Waiora Manuherekia Project.
Welcome to The Manuherekia Voice - the new collective and collaborative newsletter for MCG, Thomsons and Waiora... (CLICK HERE TO READ MORE)
We’re excited to bring you the first edition of our combined newsletter, now featuring updates from the Manuherekia Catchment Group, Waiora Manuherekia Project, and the Thomsons Catchment Project.
This new format will get all the interesting and useful updates to you in one go so you can keep up to date on the important work happening across our catchment.
About the Manuherekia Catchment Group (MCG)
MCG has always been about farmers leading the way in creating sustainable solutions for our catchment, especially concerning water quantity and quality. While we began with a focus on sustainable water practices, our work now extends far beyond that. Together, as a community, we are working with New Zealand's experts to ensure that what we do benefits the environment, the river, and the community. Supported by government funding, our initiatives include the Thomsons Catchment Project and the Waiora Manuherekia Project, all contributing to environmental resilience and vibrant communities.
Waiora Manuherekia and Thomsons Catchment Project are a part of MCG
Both the Waiora Manuherekia and Thomsons Catchment Projects fall under the umbrella of MCG, amplifying our collective efforts towards better water quality and biodiversity.
The Waiora Manuherekia Project, running from July 2024 to June 2025, is focused on connecting our community to the Manuherekia River and enhancing its health through various environmental initiatives.
The Thomsons Catchment Project, launched in October 2022, is a farmer-led initiative working towards improving water quality and supporting biodiversity in Thomsons catchment. A key milestone in this project is the Orkney Wetland, a five-hectare area that has been transformed into a thriving ecosystem, now legally protected through a QEII National Trust covenant, ensuring its long-term conservation.
Through these projects, we are committed to creating a sustainable, thriving environment for our future generations. We’re grateful for the support from the Ministry for the Environment, and we look forward to continuing this journey together with our farmers, scientists, and the community.
Stay tuned for updates on the exciting developments in our catchment and thank you for your ongoing support!
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It’s been an awesome few months for the Waiora Manuherekia Project since we kicked things off in July. As we head into the holiday season, we’re reflecting on all the amazing work that’s taken place and the community spirit that’s driven it. From securing funding for wetland restoration to the ongoing willow removal efforts, it’s been six months of action, collaboration and a shared commitment to the health of our river.
We had a great time connecting at the drone demonstration, and we’re delighted to be part of the Alexandra Riverside Park project, which will soon offer a beautiful space for everyone to enjoy right by the river.
There’s plenty more on the horizon, including a fun summer competition for schools — read more about it in this newsletter. And as always, we’re grateful for your support and involvement — together, we’re making a real difference.
Wishing you all a Merry Christmas and a relaxing summer break. We can’t wait to see what 2025 brings!
Exploring Drones in Agriculture
On 28 November, Becks Memorial Hall became a hub of innovation as local farmers and land managers gathered to explore the transformative potential of drones in agriculture. The event, hosted by the Waiora Manuherekia team, featured an engaging panel discussion and a live drone demonstration.
Experts Joshua Dunn from Overview.nz, South Otago farmer Sandra Campbell, and James Rae of Cottesbrook Dairy shared their insights into the practical applications of drones. They discussed a wide range of uses, from seeding native plants in hard-to-reach areas to delivering precise applications of spray and fertiliser. The panel also addressed the advantages, challenges, and cost-effectiveness of integrating this technology into agri-operations.
Attendees then moved outdoors to witness drones in action. Despite the breeze, the demonstration highlighted the stability and manoeuvrability of these advanced tools, leaving participants excited about their potential to revolutionise land management.
The day wrapped up with a delicious barbecue, courtesy of Ballance Agri-Nutrients and PGG Wrightson.
Events like this not only showcase cutting-edge technology but also spark meaningful discussions about how innovation can help us farm more sustainably and efficiently. Stay tuned for more opportunities to learn and connect in 2025.
Funding Opportunity for Wetlands
One of the standout initiatives of 2024 for the Waiora Manuherekia Project was the opportunity for landowners and farmers to secure one-off funding to enhance and protect their wetlands. Recognising the vital role wetlands play in catchment health — such as improving water quality, managing flood and drought impacts, and providing habitats for native species — the project sought to support wetland restoration efforts in the catchment, including fencing, weed control and replanting native species.
The funding call, which closed on 19 November, was met with strong interest from the community. Applicants were guided through an easy submission process and were encouraged to reach out with any questions, ensuring the programme was accessible and straightforward. Following a review of the expressions of interest, ten wetland restoration projects have been selected to receive funding. Now, we’re rolling up our sleeves to work with these farmers on exciting initiatives like planting, fencing and more to bring these special areas back to life. Keep an eye on future newsletters for updates on the success of the funded projects.
This initiative marks a significant step in Waiora Manuherekia’s mission to foster sustainable land and water management across the catchment, showcasing how collaboration can lead to meaningful environmental outcomes.
Willow Management
Insights from April’s willow management session have shaped priority areas for willow removal. The team is making great strides, with a resource consent application submitted to ORC (Otago Regional Council) and currently under review. Once approved, willow removal will begin at Poolburn Gorge, Hills Creek, and Lauder Creek near the rail trail bridge. These efforts will open up these spaces, making them more accessible to the community.
In addition to removing invasive willows, exciting plans are underway for planting native vegetation at these sites. The goal is to create inviting areas, particularly at Hills Creek and Lauder Creek, transforming them into scenic spots for locals and visitors to enjoy.
Alexandra Riverside Project Update
Alongside wetland restoration, we’re supporting the Alexandra Riverside Park project - a dynamic effort supported by the Central Otago District Council and Ngai Tahu to transform lower Tarbert Street in Alexandra into a lively riverside green space.
This development will link the town centre with the Manuherekia River, creating a space with walkways, seating, terraces, and a bike hub for both residents and visitors. The project also includes willow removal to open up river views at the junction of the Clutha Mata-Au and Manuherekia rivers, and the creation of new trails for cyclists and walkers. This transformative project is led by the Alexandra Riverside Park Trust, and has been made possible with the backing of several valued partners, including the Central Lakes Trust, Otago Community Trust, Lottery Grants Board, Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment, Aukaha, Anderson Fencing and Earthworks, Heritage New Zealand, and the regional and district councils. Together, we’re shaping Alexandra’s riverside into a welcoming space for family recreation, community events, and an essential link for local trail networks.
This revitalisation aligns with our commitment to fostering stronger ties between the community and the Manuherekia River.
Dive into the River of Dreams Competition
The Manuherekia River holds a special place in our hearts. This summer, Waiora Manuherekia is inviting school students in central Otago to share their connection to the river through our River of Dreams Competition.
This is a chance for students to unleash their creativity and show what the river means to them.
Entries could be:
A snap of a favourite swimming hole or fishing spot.
A drawing or painting of a dream riverscape.
A heartfelt poem or memory about a special riverside day.
A fun TikTok video of splashing or fishing.
Or any other creative idea students dream up!
There are three $50 Prezzy cards to be won in each of the following age groups: Years 1–3, Years 4–6, Years 7–8, and Years 9–13.
How to Enter
Students must email their entry to communitywaiora@mcg.org.nz by 17 February 2025, and include the name of their school, a contact number, and 50 words or less about why the river is important to them. Winners will be announced on 28 February 2025.
Entrants must be attending a school in the Central Otago District in 2025, and can submit multiple entries, however each entry should be limited to one A4 page or submitted as a single attachment.
To find out more and view the full terms and conditions, visit mcg.org.nz/competition.
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