Uretara Estuary Managers

c/- 36 Main Road

Katikati 3129

Bay of Plenty,

New Zealand

Uretara Estuary Managers aim to manage and improve the estuary down the river from Katikati, and its catchment.
We began in 2004 by controlling rodents along the estuary’s southern shore in order to encourage more bird life. Then, concerned by the rapid spread of mangroves across the estuary, we gained permission to control them by cutting, stacking and burning plants and pulling seedlings. Two years ago, 2010, a machine began operating and has cleared 12 ha many times more quickly than we could.

When we realised that silt coming from the catchment was the primary problem in the estuary we sought grants from Government and local authorities and, in co-operation with landowners, began a programme of streambank restoration which has continued since 2007. To provide some of the plants for that programme we have a small plant nursery growing several hundred suitable natives each year.

We work with college and polytechnic students on environmental projects and our activities have extended round the estuary shoreline.
In 2007 we gained a Ministry for the Environment Green Ribbon Award and a Trustpower Western Bay of Plenty Community Award.
We welcome new volunteers. Contact Sue Morris, ph 07 549 or Rosalie Smith, ph 549 2422.