Wetlands Workshop Success Inspires Action in Northern Rodney

It was fantastic to see more than 80 landowners and locals gather at the Whangaripo Valley Hall, just outside Matakana, to learn about the wonders of wetland restoration. This workshop was more than just a learning opportunity – it was a community milestone, bringing together passionate people from Northern Rodney with experts from across Auckland (and beyond) to address wetland conservation.

Why Wetlands Matter

The morning kicked off with a series of inspiring talks that emphasised why wetlands are so important to both our environment and our communities. John Sumich from Matuku Link set the tone by explaining the essential role wetlands play, from absorbing floodwaters to improving water quality and providing habitat for native species.

Saving the Bittern: A Community Responsibility

A highlight was learning about the endangered Australasian bittern or Matuku-hūrepo and the incredible opportunity in Northern Rodney to protect this elusive bird. Alex Flavell Johnson discussed local monitoring efforts while Wendy Ambury from Love Bittern gave practical advice on how small actions can make a big difference to this species on the brink of extinction.

Invertebrates, Fish, and the Hidden Life of Wetlands

Sarah Dimitrijevic from Mountains to Sea gave us a fascinating look at the fish and invertebrates living in our waterways – and why their presence is crucial to maintaining a healthy wetland ecosystem.

How to Get Your Wetland Project Started

Practical advice on weed control, site preparation, and planting came from Pat McDonald of NaturesVision. Pat’s tips were invaluable for those ready to take their first steps in restoring their wetland areas. The workshop also featured funding and support options – Katie Forno The Trust’s Kaipara Moana Remediation Field Advisor explained the fencing and planting assistance available to landowners, sparking real enthusiasm among attendees.

Afternoon Field Trip: Wetland Remnant Exploration

In the afternoon, participants visited a nearby wetland remnant for a hands-on experience. Sarah Dimitrijevic demonstrated in-stream life monitoring, uncovering some of the fish and invertebrates we had learned about earlier. Attendees also had the chance to hear from Pat McDonald and Alex Flavell Johnson, who shared insights on how they’d approach restoration if this was their wetland.

What’s Next? Get Involved and Share Your Progress

The energy and enthusiasm in the room were palpable. Many attendees left inspired, and ready to begin their own wetland restoration projects. We encourage everyone to stay connected—join our community Facebook group to share your progress, ask questions, and inspire others. Together, we can create a network of thriving wetlands across Northern Rodney, supporting wildlife and building a healthier environment for generations to come.

Whether you’re just starting or already knee-deep in wetland restoration, remember that every little bit counts. With the right knowledge, tools, and community support, we’re well on our way to making a real difference for our wetlands and wildlife. Keep an eye out for future workshops, and feel free to reach out if you need advice or support along the way. We can’t wait to see what you achieve!