Estuaries are critical in helping maintain sea water quality by filtering sediment and excess nutrients, as well as protecting the land by acting as buffers against tidal surges and storms.
Unfortunately during the 2023 weather events the Wairau Estuary in Milford was left reeling.
“The sheer scale of rubbish and debris took our breath away,” said Tabitha Becroft, Pupuke Birdsong Project Environmental Coordinator.
“There were massive piles of wreckage tangled in mangroves and a lot of household rubbish washed down from gardens and bins.”
But the local community kicked into action with support from the Devonport-Takapuna Local Board.
“The Pupuke Birdsong Project, Milford Residents Association, and Milford Mariners joined forces to organise community clean-ups, hauling out an astonishing 148 cubic metres of debris … from bulky furniture and full fences, down to toothbrushes and plastic waste.
“Conservation Volunteers NZ is also working to restore the estuary through tree planting and litter pick-ups,” adds Tabitha.
“These clean-ups are more than just a practical response – they’re a testament to our community’s resilience and determination.
“They’re not easy – they’re hard, dirty work. But every volunteer who’s waded through the mud, hauled out debris and seen the impact first-hand knows it’s worth it.”
Next community clean-up: Saturday 7 September
Keen to get involved? Don your wellies and come down to the Wairau Estuary on Saturday, 7 September 1pm-3pm.
For full details including where to meet, visit https://events.humanitix.com/stream-care-wairau-estuary.
