The water action Initiative WAI Wānaka is working with local farmers and landowners to safeguard and improve the quality of their waterway ecosystems.
Photo: RNZ / Cosmo Kentish-Barnes
WAI Wānaka was formed when three local groups concerned about freshwater came together in 2016, according to manager Julie Perry.
"There was a science group, there was Guardians of Lake Wānaka and there was also a group of 22 individuals and organisations that were all doing something to do with water. So all of these groups are now under the Wai Wānaka banner."
One of the organisation's main goals is to build healthy ecosystems and support community wellbeing in the Central Otago region.
In 2020, WAI Wānaka received Jobs for Nature funding to accelerate action for its freshwater projects.
It provides much-needed work for those who have lost their jobs due to Covid-19.
"We've had up to 44 people employed as a result of that funding," Julie says.
Photo: RNZ / Cosmo Kentish-Barnes
Prue Kane is the programme manager for Jobs for Nature and says it has attracted people from all walks of life.
"From trained lawyers and hunting guides … to hospitality and adventure tourism staff. All sorts!"
Among the Jobs for Nature staff are three hard-working field teams.
When out on farms they do plant maintenance, new planting, pest control, and biodiversity and freshwater monitoring.
"The Jobs for Nature workstreams have been set up to help landowners achieve their environmental plans," Julie says.
WAI Wānaka has also created an educational programme, Farmers as Kaitiaki.
"So we've developed a whole lot of in-class resources for schoolchildren to learn about farm management and the challenges farmers are facing," Julie says.
The aim is to connect the classroom with environmental issues and solutions on farms in the Upper Clutha Catchment.
Photo: RNZ / Cosmo Kentish-Barnes
Nina Rongokea Photo: RNZ / Cosmo Kentish-Barnes
