About the Society

The Lake Waihola Waipori Wetlands Society

The Society was established to protect the values of the Waihola and Waipori wetlands. The Society is a community based organsiation made up of a wide variety of people who  love the lakes and want to protect the environmental and lifestyle opportunities the area provides for our region.

The 2175 hecatre Waipori Waihola wetland system is one of the largest and most significant remaining lowland wetland systems in New Zealand. It is a diverse and highly productive ecosystem that supports threated species such as the giant kokopu and the South Island Fernbird. The wetland is of great significance to Kai tahu and an important recreational hunting and fishing area.

Our Mission

To sustainably manage the Lake Waihola Waipori wetlands and enhance the area for the benefit of all communities of interest.

Our Goals

Goal 1. Local community stakeholders, surrounding land users and agencies work together to foster an appreciation of, promote and achieve sustainable management of the Lake Waihola Waipori wetlands and their catchment.

Goal 2. Increase knowledge of the lakes, wetland and land interactions to effectively manage the lakes and wetlands.

Goal 3. To provide for safe and environmentally sustainable recreational, educational and cultural opportunities within the wetlands complex.

Goal 4. Advocate for ecologically viable and sustainable commercial/tourism activities within the wetlands which will benefit the local community.

“Communication leads to community, that is, to understanding,intimacy and mutual valuing.”

Rollo May