Rotorua Catchments
The Rotorua Lakes are a taonga (treasure) to the people of Te Arawa and those who live, work and play around the rohe.
Our work is focused on protecting and restoring the land and water. We do this by partnering with local iwi and hapū, landowners, community groups and individuals on environmental programmes and projects.
Puna Ora Care Group
Restoring biodiversity and improving water quality couldn’t be done without our community.
Volunteers undertake some of the most crucial work across our vibrant region. Every year thousands of people, roll up their sleeves and get to work helping protect our wai (water), whenua (land) and kararehe (animals).
Funding, support and advice
Improving land management practices is key to ensuring the sustainability of good environmental, economic and social outcomes for all. But we know it can be hard to get started.
That’s why we have a dedicated team of Land Management Officers to provide advice and support that suits you, your property and environmental goals best.
Our Land Management Officers work closely with landowners, iwi, hapū, community groups and organisations to support and encourage better land use practices around the rohe.
We can provide advice on a range of topics, from big projects like restoring a wetland to something as small as advice on what native plants are best to use on your property – we’re here to help.
For some projects, financial support may even be available to help you – whether you’re a landowner, organisation, care group or even a school.
If you are ready to get started or simply want to find out more, get in touch with your local Land Management Officer by selecting your area on the map.
Please note, our Land Management Officers cannot support resource consent applications or conditions, and funding cannot be applied to compliance costs these either.
Latest projects
As a helicopter hovers near the steep, steaming cliffs of Waimangu Valley, a battle against invasive pampas grass is underway. Contracted by Bay of Plenty Regional Council, the helicopter is part of an aerial control operation targeting the pest plant, which at first glance can be mistaken for native Toe toe.
Surrounding the edge of Lake Rotorua along Sulphur Point, and a stone’s throw from Rotorua’s CBD, the 77ha Sanatorium Reserve has undergone a remarkable transformation. The fourth-largest area of geothermal habitat of its kind in Aotearoa New Zealand, the reserve is now a thriving ecological and geothermal sanctuary, thanks to years of dedicated restoration work.
The Waitawa Stream is being brought back to life by the hands of those who whakapapa to the land. The project is a partnership between mana whenua, Regional Council and Rotorua Lakes Council. Together, the goal is to restore the stream’s mauri and create a thriving habitat for birds, insects and aquatic life.
The weed harvester cuts through dense mats of invasive weeds on Lake Rotoehu, removing excess nutrients, improving water quality, supporting native species and making the lake better for recreation.
Toi Moana and Whakapoungakau Lands Trust are working together to implement a range of tools to help meet the nutrient reduction targets set for the property under the ‘Rotorua Rules’.
