Community members are being invited to roll up their sleeves and help restore an important piece of freshwater habitat during a planting day at Waiōtahe on Friday, June 5.

The event will take place from 10am at a property on the corner of Verall Road and Waiōtahe Valley Back Road, where a new īnanga spawning wetland has recently been established as part of ongoing restoration work in the catchment.

Organised by the Waiōtahe Watercare Group, the project is aimed at improving water quality and increasing the number of wetlands across the catchment to support freshwater biodiversity and river health.

The wetland has been carefully designed to maximise spawning habitat for īnanga, or whitebait, in the upper tidal reaches where freshwater and saltwater meet – a vital ecological zone for the species.

Organiser Mel Brown said the planting day would continue the momentum created during last month’s biodiversity day and help strengthen the long-term health of the wetland.

“This upcoming event will continue that momentum, with a focus on establishing and enhancing the new īnanga spawning wetland to strengthen habitat and ecological function,” she said.

Native planting is considered a key step in ensuring the wetland develops into a healthy and resilient ecosystem.

Plants help stabilise soil, filter sediment, provide shade, and create habitat for fish and invertebrates, while also supporting overall water quality.

Attendees will also have the chance to hear from īnanga expert Kelly Hughes, who will share insights into the species’ life cycle and the importance of protecting and restoring spawning areas.

Organisers hope the practical restoration work, combined with expert knowledge on the day, will help strengthen understanding of freshwater ecology and biodiversity within the Waiōtahe catchment.

Lunch will be provided for volunteers, with organisers encouraging anyone interested in the local environment, conservation, or community-led restoration to come along and get involved.