A new wetland that brings together environmental restoration, Māori cultural values and community recreation has officially opened in Ōmokoroa on the eve of Matariki, marking a significant milestone in protecting local waterways while honouring the area’s rich whakapapa.
Wāhi ō Waipapa Wetland, located at the end of Prole Road, was formally opened following a blessing attended by representatives from the Western Bay of Plenty District Council, Pirirākau and project partners.
The wetland has been designed as a natural stormwater management system, improving water quality, reducing flood risk and creating new habitat for native plants and wildlife. At the same time, it provides a welcoming public reserve where whānau can enjoy walking, cycling and spending time in nature.
The project was developed in partnership with Pirirākau, whose cultural knowledge helped shape both the design and identity of the site. The name Wāhi ō Waipapa reflects the significance of the nearby Waipapa River, an historic waterway that has sustained generations and remains central to the area’s cultural identity.
Council leaders say the development demonstrates how essential infrastructure can work alongside nature, delivering practical environmental outcomes while creating lasting community benefits. The wetland restores the health of waterways, strengthens biodiversity and provides a space where people can reconnect with the natural environment.
A centrepiece of the reserve is Te Hokinga Mai o te Kākā (The Return of the Kākā), a striking sculpture created by artist Que Bidois and engineered by Teia Dunster. Inspired by the aspirations and stories of Pirirākau, the artwork symbolises the return of native birdlife and reinforces the importance of kaitiakitanga in restoring the environment.
Opening the wetland on the eve of Matariki adds further significance to the project. Matariki is a time of remembrance, celebration and planning for the future, values reflected in the restoration of the whenua and wai and the creation of a space that future generations can enjoy and protect.
The reserve connects directly to the Pahoia Cycleway and includes accessible boardwalks, shared walking and cycling paths, seating, a shelter, drinking fountain, public toilets and bike stands, making it an inclusive destination for both locals and visitors.
The opening of Wāhi ō Waipapa Wetland highlights the growing role of partnerships between councils and mana whenua in delivering projects that not only strengthen infrastructure but also restore ecosystems, celebrate Māori identity and ensure the health of te taiao for generations to come.
#Matariki #Kaitiakitanga #TeTaiao #Pirirākau #Ōmokoroa #WetlandRestoration #Whenua #Wai #Environment #Biodiversity #WesternBayOfPlenty #Māori #Aotearoa #RadioWaatea #WaateaNews #ClimateAction #Conservation #SEO
