WAI Wānaka

WAI Wānaka is a non-profit community organisation with a vision of healthy ecosystems and community wellbeing for future generations.

We work with individuals, community groups, farmers, catchment groups, councils, schools and businesses to improve ecosystem health, reverse biodiversity loss and keep the water healthy.

Our research, education and community programmes will make sure that everyone who touches the water acts to protect it.

Much of our work focuses on raising awareness about environmental issues, advocating for evidence-based decision making and greater research into our lakes and rivers, fostering collaboration, measuring impacts and most importantly empowering local communities to take action.

WAI Wānaka recognises Ōraka-Aparima Rūnaka, Awarua Rūnanga, Waihopai Rūnaka, Hokonui Rūnanga, Te Rūnanga o Ōtākou, Kāti Huirapa Rūnaka ki Puketeraki and Te Rūnanga o Moeraki as the seven papatipu rūnaka that are mana whenua of the Upper Lakes rohe. We are acutely aware that we do not have a relationship with mana whenua, it is our strong desire to develop a relationship and better understand the aspirations of mana whenua in the Upper Lakes rohe so that we can align our programmes where appropriate.