Rarangi Take
Rangihuna-Roberts
Te Atairehia Morgan-Cooper, the overall prize winners from Te Kura Kaupapa Māori o Bernard Fergusson at the Tūrangawaewae Regatta.
Whakakitenga
Vision
Our Vision is for a future where a healthy Waikato River sustains abundant life and prosperous communities who, in turn, are all responsible for restoring and protecting the health and wellbeing of the Waikato River, and all it embraces, for generations to come.
Ngaa Heamana Takirua
Pūrongo
Whakamaanawatia te mana atua i te Wahi Ngaro i aana tauwhirotanga nui mai i ngaa waa katoa.
Whakamaanawatia Te Arikinui Kuini Nga wai hono i te po.
Tangihia o taatau mate taaruru nui o te waa, kua huri ki tua, koutou kei te riro tiitapu, whakangaro atu raa.
Ko Kiingi Tuheitia ki te rangi.
Ko Kuini Nga wai hono i te po ki te whenua.
Pai Maarire!
Noo roto i te tau kua hori, kua taawhaitia e Waikato River Authority ngaa panonitanga rangatira, hiranga nui i roto i ngaa mahi, me te whai hua nui tonu i roto i te whaainga ki te whakarauora me te manaaki i te koiora o ngaa awa o Waikato me Waipaa.
Kua tukuna e maatou te puutea ki ngaa kaupapa matahuhua, whakarauora awa puta noa i te riu o Waikato, me te mahi tahi ki ngaa iwi o te awa ki te kaupare i te whakaekenga o ngaa Gold Clams. I te marama o Tihema i whakahaerehia e maatou te Hui Taumata o Te Awa o Waikato, i whakamanea nei ngaa maangai puta noa i te motu, me te ao. I kitea i roto i eenei koonekehanga te ngaakau tapatahi a te poari me ngaa kaimahi, kua whakapau kaha ki te whakauu tonu i te whakapono o te whare, te haapai aa-puutea tonu i nga kaupapa paanga nui, me te renarena tonu i te taura here i waenga i ngoo maatou hoa paatui.
Noo muri mai i te mahi nui o te whaatoro ki ngaa toopito o te motu ki te kimi tangata, i manawaruu maatou ki te poowhiri i a Antoine Coffin hei Kaihautuu moo maatou. I roto i ana wheako 25 tau neke atu ki te taha ki te whakahaere rawa Maaori, ngaa whakataunga Tiriti, te ahurea tuku iho me ngaa mahi aa-hapori, he kawenga nui taa Antoine mahi arataki i ngaa kaupapa kei mua i te aroaro. Koiaa tonu moo te Fast-track Approvals Bill, e haukoti nei pea i ngaa tukatuka tono whakaaetanga a Te Ture Whaimana. Kua kaha urupare hoki a WRA ki ngaa kaupapa here aa-rohe, aa-motu anoo hoki e tukituki ana ki te maataapono o Te Ture Whaimana, araa ko te tuhinga e noho nei hei kaapehu moo te ahunga o te takiwaa. Ko te whaainga kia whakapuumau i ngaa mea ture, me ngaa mea whakatinana e taunaki nei i te ahu whakamua o Te Ture Whaimana. I teenei waa, kei te pae tuatoru maatou, o te arotake i Te Ture Whaimana, araa he mea kua whai mai i ngaa pae whakarite hanganga arotake me te taatari whaarua e aro puu ana ki ngaa mea hei waanangananga maa te tuumatanui. E toominahia ana te ora o Te Ture Whaimana i roto i taua arotake, mo ngaa tau tekau ka whai mai.
He mea whakarikarika teenei arotakenga o Te Ture Whaimana e ahu ana ki te pai o te kaupapa whakarauora, manaaki hoki i ngaa awa o Waikato me Waipaa. Kua ihuoneone te tiima ki te mahi tahi ki ngaa hoa haere, araa, ngaa iwi o ngaa awa moo ngaa kaupapa nui me te whaainga kia whakaritea teetehi putanga hukihuki hou hei te aranga o te tau 2025.
Ko taa te Te Ture Whaimana he whakaraarangi i te whakakitenga, ngaa whaainga me ngaa rautaki whakarauora i te koiora o ngaa awa me oo raaua hopuwai. Koia, he me ahurei, he mea tuutoro kua ara ake i te Whakataunga aa-Tiriti, e waha nei i ngaa aawhero, i ngaa tumanako a raatou maa kua wehe, otiraa a raatou hoki ka ara mai.
E whakamihi ana i te wehenga a Julian Williams, taa maatou kaitohutohu kaupapa here me te kaituitui hunga whai paanga, i noho mai moo ngaa tau e whitu, otiraa i te kaiwhakarite maataamua, a Susan Stephens me oona puukenga whakariterite i te poari. He whai waahitanga nui aa raaua mahi ki te ora o ngaa mahi a WRA.
Kua whakaaetia e te Waikato River Clean-up Trust ngaa kaupapa e 29 i roto i te tau, araa he $5,904,526.61 te waariu. Ka mutu, e 32 ngaa kaupapa kua tutuki, hei tapeketanga 312 kaupapa whakarauora kua ea mai i too maatou oorokohanga. Maa roto i te aratakitanga a te Kaihautuu hou, kua takatuu maatou ki te whakamahine i ngaa rautaki me te whakapiki i ngaa mahi whaitaua moo ngaa awa e whakakotahi nei a taatou.
Ngaa manaakitanga,
Tipa Mahuta
Heamana Takirua, Mema aa-iwi
Waikato River Authority
Co-Chairs Report
Whakamaanawatia te mana atua i te Wahi Ngaro i aana tauwhirotanga nui mai i ngaa waa katoa.
Whakamaanawatia Te Arikinui Kuini Nga wai hono i te po.
Tangihia o taatau mate taaruru nui o te waa, kua huri ki tua, koutou kei te riro tiitapu, whakangaro atu raa.
Ko Kiingi Tuheitia ki te rangi.
Ko Kuini Nga wai hono i te po ki te whenua.
Pai Maarire!
Over the past year, the Waikato River Authority has navigated a significant period of leadership transition while making strides in our mission to restore and protect the health and well-being of the Waikato and Waipaa Rivers.
We have funded a diverse array of river restoration projects across the Waikato Catchment and collaborated with river iwi to address the incursion of Gold clams. In December, we hosted the Te Awa o Waikato River Symposium, attracting both international and national delegates. This progress is a testament to our dedicated board and staff, who have worked diligently to sustain organisational confidence, continue funding impactful projects, and maintain stability among our partners.
After a comprehensive nationwide search, we were delighted to welcome Antoine Coffin as our new Kaihautuu and Chief Executive Officer. With over 25 years of experience in Maaori resource management, Treaty settlements, cultural heritage, and community engagement, Antoine's leadership is crucial, especially as we face challenges such as the Fast-track Approvals Bill, which could potentially bypass traditional resource consent processes and Te Ture Whaimana.
The WRA has also actively responded to national and regional policies that threaten the integrity of Te Ture Whaimana, as the prevailing direction setting document for the catchment. Our goal is to ensure that all legislative and practical components support the advancement of Te Ture Whaimana. Currently, we are in Phase 3 of reviewing Te Ture Whaimana, having completed the initial phases that established a review framework and conducted a gaps analysis focusing on key areas for public discussion. We hope that the review will continue to elevate Te Ture Whaimana for the next decade.
The review of Te Ture Whaimana is an exciting opportunity to enhance the kaupapa of restoring and protecting our Waikato and Waipaa Rivers. The team have been busy engaging with our river iwi partners on a range important topic areas with a goal to drafting a new version by 2025.
Te Ture Whaimana outlines the vision, objectives and strategies for restoring the health and well-being of our rivers and their catchments. It’s a visionary and unique Treaty settlement mechanism that carries the hopes and dreams of those who have gone before us, as well as those who will follow.
We acknowledge the departures of Julian Williams, our stakeholder engagement and policy advisor, after seven years, and executive administrator, Susan Stephens, who has adeptly managed our board. Their contributions have been pivotal to the WRA’s ongoing success.
The Waikato River Clean-up Trust has approved 29 projects this year worth a total value of $5,904,526. Additionally, 32 projects were finished, bringing the total number of completed river restoration projects to 312 since our establishment. With a new Kaihautuu leading the way, we are poised to refine our strategies further and enhance our advocacy efforts for the rivers that unite us all.
Ngaa manaakitanga,
Stu Kneebone
Co-Chair, Crown Appointee Waikato River Authority
Ngaa Mema o te Poari
Tipa Mahuta Co-Chair, Iwi Appointee (Waikato-Tainui)
Kei te riu o Waikato, ko Rahui Pookeka, ko Waahi Paa, Ko Ngati Mahuta e tau ana.
Tipa Mahuta is from Rahui Pookeka (Huntly) and grew up at Waahi Paa with the impacts of the Huntly Power Project and coal mining on local communities. She collected oral histories from kaumātua and supported the establishment of the tribal Tira Hoe, to return this history to descendants of the river.
Tipa has held a wide range of governance roles including iwi and local government positions. Tipa is the Co-Chair iwi appointee of the Waikato River Authority and Co-Chair of Te Whakakitenga o Waikato.
Her other current roles include Member – Chair, Te Puna, Taumata Arowai and Councillor Waikato Regional Council.
Stu Kneebone Co-Chair, Crown Appointee
Stu Kneebone is councillor on the Waikato Regional Council and a local farmer. He actively supports initiatives that contribute towards catchment health, water quality and biodiversity enhancement. Mr Kneebone has experience across local government and is committed to the local environment and working with river iwi. He’s been heavily involved in the Healthy Rivers/Wai Ora project change since its inception, including Co-Chairing the committee that governed the project with river iwi.
From a practical perspective, Stu has had an active involvement in Regional Council catchment management restoration work, as well as extensive riparian restoration work on his own farm.
"Ko tooku awa koiora me oona pikonga, he kura tangihia o te maataamuri," Kiingi Taawhiao.
"The river of life, each curve more beautiful than the last," Kiingi Taawhiao.
Board Members
Danny Loughlin
Deputy Co-Chair, Iwi Appointee (Tūwharetoa)
Ko Tongariro te maunga, Ko Taupō te moana, Ko Tūwharetoa te iwi, Ko te Heuheu te tangata. Ko Ngāti Ruingarangi, Ngāti Rauhoto rātou ko Ngāti Te Maunga ngā karangaranga hapū.
Danny Aperahama Loughlin is the iwi appointee for Tūwharetoa. He is General Manager for Ngāti Tūwharetoa Fisheries Charitable Trust.
As a trustee of the Tūwharetoa Māori Trust Board for over 18 years, he has a responsibility as the legal kaitiaki for Taupō Waters, including the Waikato River. Danny is also a Councillor on Taupō District Council for Te Papamārearea Māori Ward.
His current Board responsibilities include: Tūwharetoa Māori Trust Board; Waikato Regional Council Joint Governance Committee; Taupo District Council Co-Governance Joint Management Committee; Hapū Alternate on Te Kotahitanga o Ngati Tūwharetoa; Ngāti Tūwharetoa Fisheries Holdings Limited; Tauhara Moana Trust; Tauhara Dairy Ltd; Healthy Rivers Plan for Change / Wai Ora – He Rautaki Whakapaipai Committee.
Roger Pikia Iwi Appointee (Te Arawa River Iwi Trust)
Mai i te Waiheke o Huka, whakarāwhiti atu ki te mania o Kaingaroa, Ko te tihi o Kākaramea, puta atu ki te pae Maunga o Paeroa, ko Ōrākei Kōrako te Ūkaipo, tae rawa atu ki Pōhaturoa. Ko Te Awa o Waikato kei waenganui.
Arā, ko ngā tāonga tuku īho, o Tahumatua. Ko Ngāti Tahu-Ngāti Whāoa, rātou ko Ngāti Tūwharetoa, Raukawa, Waikato-Tainui, Ngāti Maniāpoto me Ngāti Hikairo ōku iwi ko Roger Haare Charles Pikia tōku ingoa.
Roger Pikia remains as the only inaugural appointee serving on the Waikato River Authority (WRA) and Waikato River Clean-up Trust (WRCuT). He was formerly the iwi Co-Chair of the WRA and the inaugural Chair of the WRA Investment Committee, which was tasked with establishing a perpetual fund by prudently investing surplus funds to help future proof the WRA and WRCuT. Roger was a foundation member of the Guardians Establishment Committee (GEC) which was the precursor to the WRA, tasked with formulating the vision and strategy which became the cornerstone of the Waikato River Settlement and related legislation.
Roger is Chair of the Ngāti Tahu-Ngāti Whāoa Runanga Trust and a Trustee on the Te Arawa River Iwi Trust (TARIT). He led the Waikato River Settlement negotiations with the Crown, for and on-behalf of TARIT. Roger also co-led the Treaty Settlement negotiations for Te Arawa along with advancing the interests of the affiliate iwi of the Te Arawa collective within the Central North Island Crown Forest Licensed Lands (CNI) Treaty Settlement negotiations. Roger is currently the CEO of the Tahumatua Investment Group of companies.
Wikitōria Tāne Iwi Appointee (Maniapoto)
Wikitōria Tāne is Ngāti Maniapoto of Ngāti Urunumia, Ngāti Apakura, Ngāti Uekaha and Ngāti Unu hapū descent.
Wikitōria has a keen interest in whakapapa and intra and inter relationships within the Tainui rohe and beyond.
Wikitōria has governance experience at marae, Māori Land Block, Land Incorporation and Iwi Authority level. She is a Maniapoto Māori Trust Board trustee and works on taiao Resource Management Act matters within Maniapoto and Tainui regions, with a particular focus on protection and restoration of Waipā and Waikato Awa and their environs.
Wikitōria is a Director and Consultant of Manukarere Ltd and Co-Owner/Co-Director of Trust Waiwaiā Ltd.
Nachelle Griffiths Iwi Appointee (Raukawa)
Taku ara rā, ko Tūrongo, I wawaea ki te Tai-rāwhiti, Ko Māhinaarangi, ko te rua ra I moe ai a Raukawa; He kāwei tautika mai ki ahau.
Nachelle Griffiths is the Raukawa appointee to the Waikato River Authority. Her marae include Ōngāroto and Mōkai which both sit in the upper river catchment near Ātiamuri, Aotearoa and Rawhitiroa/Owairaka which both sit within the Waipā River catchment.
Nachelle has governance experience in commercial entities and Māori Authorities. These include overseeing significant commercial investments in geothermal power generation, agriculture, horticulture, and telecommunication investment. She also has a strong focus on sustainability and environmental stewardship which is inherent in her roles at the hapū, Land Trust, and Iwi Authority level.
Erina Watene Crown
Appointee
Erina Watene is an experienced governor and director, having also served on Ngā Pae o te Māramatanga, Te Wai Māori Trust, NZ Biological Heritage Science Challenge, iwi, and not-for-profit Boards; as well as many advisory groups.
Professionally, Erina is a freshwater scientist with a background in river and lake restoration, taonga species research, resource management and environmental planning. She is experienced working at the interface between policy, mātauranga Māori, and science. Ms Watene grew up alongside the Waikato River and has whakapapa connections to Waikato iwi. Her strong technical expertise in freshwater management sits alongside her community connections.
Shadrach Rolleston
Crown Appointee
Shadrach Rolleston is of Ngāti Ranginui, Ngāi Te Rangi, Ngāti Pūkenga and Ngāti Haua descent.
Shadrach is a resource management consultant and policy advisor with experience in Māori relationship management and engagement. He is currently a government appointed commissioner at Tauranga City Council where he lives with his family.
Susan O'Regan
Crown Appointee
Susan O'Regan is the Mayor of Waipā District Council and a farmer in the area.
Susan is a barrister who formerly worked for a Te Awamutu and Auckland law business before starting her solo practice. Susan and John Hayward were the 2016 supreme winners of the Waikato Ballance Farm Environment Awards for their operation of Judge Valley Dairies Ltd, a 245ha farm east of Te Awamutu where they milked about 300 cows. She is a keen supporter of environmental projects including wetland restoration and riparian plantings.
Stu Muir
Deputy Co-Chair, Crown Appointee
Stuart Muir is a dairy farmer on the lower reaches of the Waikato River near Waiuku. He has a long history of riparian and wetland restoration and education. He has had a particular focus on conversation strategy, environmental management and agriculture business strategy and planning. Stu is chair of The Endangered Species Foundation. He speaks Māori and adds a strong mātauranga Māori perspective to local and national bodies.
Highlights 2023 – 2024
Community Unites to Plant Kahikatea
Forest in Te Kauwhata
Kaumātua and rangatahi came together to plant the first strand of kahikatea trees and other native species as part of an ambitious project to create a forest near the Lakeside development on the banks of Lake Waikare near Te Kauwhata.
Phyliss Bhana felt overwhelmed planting alongside the younger generation. “It means that our kaupapa and kawa is being transferred to the younger generation that way it will never die as we work together as one.”
Anne Goodin, a resident at Aparangi Village, praised the initiative. “This is an excellent community project. It helps improve our surroundings and honours the kahikatea forests that were here a long time ago.”
“This is an excellent community project. It helps improve our surroundings and honours the kahikatea forests that were here a long time ago.”
Glen Tupuhi highlighted the Lakeside Developers' commitment to environmental stewardship. They plan to bequeath about 10 hectares of green space around the residential area to the Waikato District Council, aiming to reduce maintenance costs. “An authentic forest will be self-sustaining over time,” Glen said.
The project has already shown promising results, with native birds like the kōtuku (white heron) and kōtuku moana (blue heron) returning to the area, attracted by the shallow wading pools formed by natural springs. “These birds thrive in these shallow waters,” Glen said.
Phyliss Bhana (left) and Anne Goodin lend a hand.
Antoine Coffin Excited to Lead Waikato River Authority
Antoine Coffin has been appointed as the Kaihautū and Chief Executive Officer of the Waikato River Authority
“I am excited about this unique opportunity to work with river iwi and other stakeholders to rehabilitate our ancestral rivers – awa tupuna,” Antoine said.
Antoine is a specialist in resource management, cultural heritage planning, community engagement and facilitation. His appointment was announced on May 15, and he started his new role on June 18.
“I look forward to integrating my strategic vision, passion for meaningful relationships, and deep commitment to building a new generation of river kaitiaki (guardians),” he added.
Alongside his Māori heritage, (Raukawa, Ngāti Apakura, Ngai Te Rangi, Ngāti Ranginui, Ngāpuhi), Antoine also
Raukawa Present New CEO to Waikato River Authority
The new Chief Executive Officer of the Waikato River Authority Antoine Coffin was presented to the authority by his Raukawa iwi at a ceremony in South Waikato. Waikato River Authority (WRA) board members, staff and whānau attended the ceremony held at the Raukawa offices in Tokoroa where Coffin was handed over by their chairperson Kataraina Hodge after the whakatau. Mr Coffin, who affiliates with Raukawa, Ngāti Apakura, Ngāi Te Rangi, Ngāti Ranginui, and Ngāpuhi, started in his role as Kaihautū/ CEO of the WRA in June.
celebrates his descendancy from French and American settlers in New Zealand. Raised by his kuia and koroua, Nessie and Joe Kuka, in Tauranga, Antoine was deeply influenced by his Māori heritage. His parents, George and Jo Poihaere Coffin, both had distinguished careers in the NZ Navy.
Antoine is married to Shirley-Marie Whata-Coffin of Te Arawa and Raukawa descent, and they have four children between them. Together, they have provided consultancy advice and expert support to government agencies, iwi, Māori organisations, local government, and corporate clients in areas such as strategic planning, RMA decision-making, infrastructure and building relationships with tangata whenua. Antoine has interests in kapa haka, martial arts, taonga research and cooking.
WRA Co-Chair Stu Kneebone, Raukawa Chair Kataraina Hodge, WRA CEO Antoine Coffin and WRA Co-Chair Tipa Mahuta.
Waikato River Authority Board members, staff and whānau attended the handover ceremony of WRA CEO Antoine Coffin at the Raukawa offices in Tokoroa.
Huntly’s
Steady Eddie Safeguards Natural Puna
Huntly's Eddie Berryman aims to safeguard natural water springs around Te Kauri Marae to help filter water and restore the surrounding wetlands, ultimately helping to clean up the Waikato River.
Eddie has been steadily realising his ambitious project since his first application for funding from the Waikato River Authority in 2016.
The 68-year-old farmer was "very grateful" to have two projects with $134,000 approved in the Waikato River Authority 2023 funding round to build on the work he has completed around his cherished marae.
He was among 30 successful applicants who received $5.9m in total funding to restore the Waikato and Waipā Rivers.
Eddie has restored five whānau puna (springs) and those of neighbouring properties by fencing them off to protect them from animals and planting native plants around them, which work as a natural filter for the water that flows into Lake Waahi.
His latest projects attempt to improve a headwater gully or puna system and downstream watercourse that flows into a recently retired 6.5ha wetland area on a Waikato Tainui-owned farm that Te Kauri Marae leases upstream of Lake Okowhao.
Penter Farewelled
“This is where the cleaning of the water happens in the swamps so if we restore the wetlands, the water going to the Lake, then the river will be cleaner than it's ever been.”
As an added benefit, he hopes to transform the waterway into a "secret" watercress patch for Te Kauri Marae.
“Everything we do on this farm is for the marae, and we're trying to make it self-sustaining. At the moment, we provide meat to tangihanga and sell stock, with all proceeds going back to the marae.”
Waikato River Authority Co-Chair Stu Kneebone said he was impressed by the wide range of successful projects, from the $1.2m awarded to Puniu River Care which is focused on improving biodiversity and water quality in the Puniu and Waipā Rivers, to the smaller applications like Eddie Berryman who is restoring natural puna.
“We’re proud of every project which number 449 and $72m of funding invested since the Authority’s establishment, which is collectively making a difference in restoring our waterways.”
During the year the Waikato River Authority farewelled its long-serving inaugural Chief Executive, Mr Bob Penter. Mr Penter led the establishment of the WRA in 2010 and across his tenure oversaw the WRA being widely regarded as the gold standard for freshwater restoration at scale in Aotearoa New Zealand. Mr Penter's contribution to restoring the health and wellbeing of the Waikato River catchment is one he can be deservedly proud of, and he retains our appreciation and best wishes.
Eddie Berryman restores wetlands near Te Kauri Marae in Huntly.
Williams Proud of His Service at Waikato River Authority
When Julian Williams, of Ngaati Makirangi descent, reflects on his seven years of service at the Waikato River Authority (WRA), he beams with pride.
The tupuna awa or ancestral waterways have given much to the people who draw from them, and Julian has tirelessly advocated for the restoration and protection of the health and well-being of the Waikato and Waipā Rivers.
"Prioritising the health of our waters in decisionmaking is becoming a norm. This transformation signifies that we are nurturing more kaitiaki for our awa."
“If we heal the river,” Julian asserts, “We heal the people. My mum raised me to go to the awa when I was unwell and ask her to heal me. I want to give back to her and heal her.”
This simple philosophy highlights his approach to kaitiakitanga, emphasising that small steps, like advocating for better environmental practices and restoring the borders of rivers and streams, can significantly improve her well being.
Julian's journey as an advocate for the river spans over two decades. He began his career at Huntly’s Waahi Whaanui Trust in 1999, serving as an environment officer focused
on local natural resource issues to support marae. In 2003, he worked for the Waikato Iwi Authority joining a creative iwi team to negotiate and implement the Waikato River Settlement. Julian left the tribe in 2015 as the general Manager for the Waikato Raupatu River Trust. This landmark settlement eventually led to the establishment of the WRA, where Julian has been a pivotal figure since 2018, championing the enforcement and protection of the Te Ture Whaimana o Te Awa o Waikato, the Vision and Strategy for the rivers.
“I've been most delighted by witnessing the shift in thinking within our local sectors and communities. Prioritising the health of our waters in decision-making is becoming a norm. This transformation signifies that we are nurturing more kaitiaki for our awa.”
Julian departed from the WRA in June to further develop his consultancy service, Te Huia Natural Resources Limited. With over 25 years of experience working with iwi, councils, and local partners, he has honed his expertise in implementing Te Mana o te Wai, training whaanau in cultural environmental assessments and advisory services for various activities that may impact taonga.
“I was privileged to be engaged to continue work with ‘toku awa koiora,’ my river of life, and I am excited about progressing the good work with our iwi and community through my consultancy and friends of our awa,” Julian said.
Meanwhile, Susan Stephens, who has provided secretarial support to the WRA Board, also left the WRA to build her mortgage brokering business, with a special focus on helping Māori to buy property.
Stakeholder and Engagement Manager Julian Williams speaking at Te Awa o Waikato River Symposium.
Susan Stephens
Celebrating the Inaugural Te Awa o Waikato River Symposium
A Milestone in River Restoration
The Waikato River Authority (WRA) is proud to have led the planning and delivery of the inaugural Te Awa o Waikato River Symposium. Held on November 28-29, 2023, at Te Whakakitenga o Waikato Debating Chambers in Hopuhopu, this trailblazing two-day event attracted over 200 attendees and included a field trip and a technical workshop with 30 national and international experts in river restoration.
Te Ture Whaimana o Te Awa o Waikato (The Vision and Strategy for the Waikato River) mandates the sharing of local, national, and international expertise on river restoration and activities within their catchments.
This Symposium was a direct response to this requirement, bringing together a diverse group of iwi and river restoration practitioners, partner organisations, and independent experts to share projects, philosophies, and learnings.
The restoration of Te Awa o Waikato is a long journey, and we are still at the beginning. Improving our collective understanding of restoration processes and timelines will better target our efforts to restore the health and wellbeing of the river. The Symposium provided a platform for participants to exchange knowledge and experiences, setting the stage for continued collaboration and progress.
Guest speakers at the symposium from left, Shannon Te Huia, Hinerangi Kara, Shannon Clarke, Dr. Mike Scarsbrook, WRA Co-Chair Stu Kneebone and Sam Cashell.
Day 1: Honouring the Legacy and Building Capacity
The first day of the Symposium was opened by WRA Co-Chair Tipa Mahuta and featured presentations from various kaitiaki groups, restoration practitioners, and programme managers. Speakers emphasized honouring the legacy of visionary tūpuna such as Te Puea Herangi and Rewi Maniapoto, who laid the groundwork for the river's restoration. The cultural significance of this work is deeply motivating, aiming to restore not only the river but also the knowledge and stories of the tūpuna.
“Our cultural sites were just dots on maps you couldn’t go to – but they were where our tūpuna used to live, used to eat, used to fight, died, and were buried.”
The restoration work is comprehensive and holistic, encompassing cleaner water, healthier taonga species, more jobs, and stronger advocacy for kaitiakitanga. It is seen as a kaupapa first and a business second, fulfilling the wairua and highlighting the importance of self-determination.
A huge amount of capacity has been built amongst the kaimahi involved. The importance of self-determination in this work was emphasised by those doing the restoration: “We designed our own project.” “Our whenua, our wai, our people, our tikanga.” This was echoed by support agencies: “Iwi-led projects are critical – who’s doing the work matters.”
Several practitioners traced the start of their journey back to their own decision to commit to action, followed by building relationships, forming partnerships, generating action, and then getting results. “We stand and hold the space, then the experts will come, work starts and then others will carry on the mahi.” Approaching the marae first was seen as essential. Also, having the right people to talk with landowners was helpful, including informal conversations in the pub or gym. “We had multiple landowners, and we asked them all: what can you contribute?”
Those working in restoration had to be strategic, and adaptable. Examples of strategies included using data to prioritise where to work, finding places where pest fish have not reached yet and installing barriers, and looking for opportunities to restore water levels to modified lakes and wetlands. It was recommended to take a long-term approach and see what actually can be restored. New technology is being applied to monitoring (e.g. eDNA), and Virtual Reality can help people visualise the past and also what the future could be like. “Grab the tech that can help” was the advice.
The grit and determination were also evident in a “never give up” attitude. “Sometimes you have to wait for the right time. We learned with our whānau land Trusts that ‘no’ means ‘no for now’. You do the first bit well, and that inspires the next bit. You don’t have to be an expert to get s*** done.”
“We designed our own project. Our whenua, our wai, our people, our tikanga.”
WRA Co-Chair Tipa Mahuta opens the Te Awa o Waikato River Symposium.
Day 2: Indigenous Voices and Policy Insights
The second day of the Symposium brought together more indigenous voices from Aotearoa and Australia, along with researchers studying large rivers, their social ecosystems, and policy institutions. WRA Co-Chair Stu Kneebone highlighted Te Ture Whaimana as the strongest policy direction for managing freshwater, emphasizing mātauranga and collective stewardship. This anchor policy “puts the mana of the rivers at the forefront,” emphasises mātauranga, and is a “reflection of our collective commitment to stewardship and kaitiakitanga, as we work together for future generations.”
The theme of policy was taken up by a number of speakers during the day. Policy can be complex (for example water laws in Australia, NZ fishery regulations, and health and safety issues related to activities near the water). Native fish need legal protection, especially slow-maturing species like tuna, which are sensitive to overfishing. Stories were shared of tūpuna practices to manage tuna being accessed by many tribal groups, through the events that gave rise to the naming of Rāhui Pokeka. In recent times, the WaikatoTainui tuna fishing regulations were seen as a major advance in protection, with results evident in the return of longfin tuna to some lakes. The story was also shared of river iwi taking a leading role by initiating their own elver trap-and-transfer direct action, with a top tip for partners: “Let go!” Local and international researchers provided their insights about collectivising policy: “Strength comes when we act together, but it is entrenched to act individually;” “Co-design and co-implement for equitable and inclusive policy;” “Collective management can be flexible, for example water trading clubs, but first you need defined rights and aligned institutions.”
Many voices in the room were calling for the voice of the water itself to be heard. “Let the River speak, let the River heal.” As people, we need to listen and make good calls. “When the river washed away plantings downstream, it was a call to focus up in the wetlands and the tributaries.” We can gather and share information that helps the river to tell its story – there is a “digital river of data” as realtime monitoring technology is deployed. Gaming software has been used to create VR experiences of catchments. In terms of information, a missing element was identified: “River health – we know enough. River behaviour – we have information (although it is limited because it is based on the past). River stories – that’s what’s missing.” Telling river stories was identified as central to the “techniques of our ancestors – pūrākau, tongikura.” In Australia, stories are being retold and knowledge exchanged through bringing young people to have direct experiences. “The places still exist, we can take them there, some of the markers are still there. We are getting the kids back on country – yarning around the fire. The water stories are there in songs, in dances, in art, in the dreaming stories. It is long knowledge, millenia-old – we are privileged to hear the oldest water stories on the planet.”
The Symposium concluded with a clear call to action: “Our rivers need us and we need them. Hear the voice of the river. Hear the call. The rivers are saying: we need your help. Heed the taniwha. Be the taniwha!” The Symposium's success in bringing together a diverse range of perspectives and expertise marks a significant milestone in the ongoing journey of Te Awa o Waikato's restoration.
Over 200 people attended the two day symposium which was held at Te Whakakitenga Debating Chamber at Hopuhopu.
Five Key Themes Emerge from Symposium
Among the wealth of information and shared experiences the following were identified as important themes:
1. Legacy – we exist within a dynamic, living system, where the actions of the past have shaped the state of the awa. Choices made in the past also constrain what the awa might look like in future. It is equally important to recognise the personal legacy of those who have set us on the path of restoring the health and wellbeing of the awa.
2. Connection – “To be effective kaitiaki we must restore our relationship first.” Re-establishing the connections of people with the awa and creating a greater respect for the awa are critical to restoration success.
3. Scale of the challenge – Fundamental changes in land use, dramatically altered hydrology, and an increasing array of introduced pest species are the main drivers of river state, and repairing the river will require massive effort to address these (and other) drivers. The scale of the challenge can seem insurmountable but there are solutions if we have the collective will to implement them.
4. Endurance – We saw multiple examples of dogged determination and commitment to restoration by kaitiaki, landowners and restoration practitioners. We recognise the timeframes for restoration are intergenerational and we will need to support and build more restoration champions to continue the work.
5. Clarity of direction – Te Ture Whaimana is the anchor, providing certainty of the long-term Vision for the awa. There is an opportunity to provide greater clarity on restoration objectives and the likely response pathways for the awa based on different sets of possible actions.
“Our rivers need us and we need them. Hear the voice of the river. Hear the call. The rivers are saying: we need your help. Heed the taniwha. Be the taniwha!”
Field Trip Brings out Useful Knowledge
International experts were able to better understand the difficulties of restoring the Waikato and Waipā Rivers after going on a multi-stop field trip.
Michelle Hodges, Funding Manager for the Waikato River Authority, said that the field trip from Ngāruawāhia to Glen Murray included a range of stops and commentary for participants to see and learn about environmental projects being implemented in the Lake Whangape Catchment (west of Rangiriri).
Lake Whangape is the second biggest lake in the lower Waikato River basin. What was once a clear lake is now a dark body where algal blooms are common and pest plant species are a constant threat. Landowners, DOC, Waikato Regional Council, Waikato-Tainui through the Nga Muka Development Trust and the Waahi Whaanui Trust iwi, with funding from WRA and others have been working together over the last five-years to make improvements to the lake. This has involved catchment interventions to reduce sediment runoff to waterways, stabilising eroding land,
protecting wetland areas and fencing and planting the lake margin to protect it from stock.
The goal of the field trip was to showcase some of this work and engage with international experts on some of the environmental challenges faced in the Lower Waikato River catchment, including Lake Whangape.
Michelle says the international academics attending Te Awa o Waikato River Symposium found it helpful to learn more about what's happening on the ground, especially since the next day they were going to a workshop to talk further about Waikato and Waipā River restoration.
“They have a lot of really valuable knowledge and experience to share and getting outdoors to look at some of the WRA funded work on the ground gave us an opportunity to hear more about their experiences overseas.”
Natasha Granger, a freshwater ecologist shares her knowledge about Lake Whangape as part of the field trip.
Range of Science Expertise Helps
Refine Restoration Timeline Curves
About 30 people came together for a workshop that was part of Te Awa o Waikato River Symposium to help refine the ‘restoration timeline curves,’ a programme focused on restoring and protecting the Waikato and Waipā Rivers. The workshop sought to draw on the international and national experts brought together for the Symposium.
Workshop Facilitator Helen Ritchie says the room was buzzing with ideas as these experts reviewed the six ‘taura’ covering a range of outcomes sought for the rivers – from people’s effort and experience to water quality and quantity, ecology and kai.
“There was also a range of science expertise in the room, and lively discussion ensued as different perspectives and knowledge were applied to the main workshop task. People drew and wrote down their ideas as they considered the restoration trajectories and what might accelerate or derail progress for each taura.”
The workshop outcomes will feed into refining the ongoing work on the rivers alongside other expertise, such as input from river iwi partners. The refined restoration timelines promise to ground expectations, providing a clear view of the process's speed and scope. Moreover, the workshop's outputs are slated to influence the monitoring mechanisms for the rivers' progress, integrating findings into the Taura and Report Cards. This initiative will also contribute to the review of Te Ture Whaimana, highlighting the rivers' cultural and ecological importance.
Workshop attendees brainstorm river restoration ideas at the University of Waikato.
Waikato River Clean-up Trust Funds Increase by
$10.6 Million
The Trust funds increased by $10.6m to a total of $100.8m in the financial year to 30 June 2024. This was made up of positive investment returns of $8.6m and net cash flows of $2m to and from the Trust. The long-term growth portfolio which comprises most of the investment funds for the Trust ended the year up +10.5%.
Investment markets were volatile throughout the year due to significant economic and political events. It is a record year for elections with over 2 billion voters in 50 countries going to the polls and any change in leadership has created market uncertainty as investors look to understand the potential impact on trade tariffs, company taxes and company growth prospects from changes to fiscal and monetary policy.
The global economic landscape continued to be dominated by persistent inflation and central bank interest rate policy. Interest rates remained higher for longer in many developed markets which slowed growth and resulted in lower consumer spending due to rising unemployment and fewer job openings. Several countries, including the UK and a number in Europe, faced recession in late 2023 and early 2024 before several central banks such as the Bank of Canada and the European Central Bank felt comfortable enough to begin cutting rates. In comparison, the Reserve Bank of NZ resisted calls to lower domestic interest rates despite the local economy falling into a technical recession in late 2023. Finding the right balance between controlling inflation and economic growth remains challenging since prolonged high rates can hinder economic activity, while lowering rates too quickly risks reigniting inflation.
Global equities performed strongly in the first half of the year, with significant gains in most developed markets, and particularly the US market which was largely driven by a few high-performing technology stocks with artificial intelligence and healthcare showing resilience, while materials and
energy underperformed. The second half of the year saw modest gains from global markets but a negative return from the NZ market which has been hampered by weak growth. Since the end of the period improving inflation data and positive central bank commentary has led to signs investors are prepared to look for opportunities outside of the very large US companies which have dominated market returns over recent years. A falling interest rate environment is generally positive for small company shares, Europe presents opportunities in large multinational corporations and Japan’s market looks attractive due to favourable valuations.
Over the year, fixed income markets saw significant movements both up and down. In general, anticipation of rate cuts meant high-quality government and corporate fixed-income securities offered attractive returns as yields moved lower, while more risky higher yielding corporate bonds were mixed with investors wary of underlying company profitability. The fixed interest part of the portfolio has also benefited from being able to reinvest in higher yields after several years of extremely low interest rates.
During the remainder of 2024 and into 2025 we expect central banks, including the US Federal Reserve and the RBNZ, to cautiously reduce interest rates to stimulate growth while ensuring inflation remains controlled. This strategy, supported by recent economic data and moderating inflation aims for long-term economic and market stability. Against this backdrop, improving economic and corporate activity will be supportive for investment markets.
$105,000,000
$100,000,000
$95,000,000
$90,000,000
$85,000,000
$80,000,000
$75,000,000
$70,000,000
$65,000,000
$60,000,000
TOTAL
Board Meetings
Summary of Attendance
Waikato River Clean-up Trust Meetings
1 July 2023 – 30 June 2024
Stu Kneebone
Danny Loughlin
Stu Muir
Roger
Erina Watene
Nachelle Griffiths
Shad Rolleston
Wikitōria Tāne
Waikato River Authority Board
1
Stu
Stu Muir
Erina
Nachelle
Wikitōria
Tipa Mahuta
Tipa Mahuta
Kneebone
Other Board Meeting Attendances
1 July 2023 – 30 June 2024
Te Ture Whaimana Review Workshop 18 July 2023
Tipa Mahuta
Stu Kneebone
Danny Loughlin
Stu Muir
Roger Pikia Apology
Erina Watene
Nachelle Griffiths
Shad Rolleston
Wikitōria Tāne
Susan O'Regan
To view speakers from two-day Te Awa o Waikato River Symposium, scan the following QR codes.
Day one: Day two:
WRA’s Michelle Hodges and Sue McConnochie ask questions of speakers at the symposium.
An aerial view of the Waikato River and the Ngāruawāhia Bridge.
Waikato River Authority – Group
Consolidated Statement of Service Performance
For
the year ended 30 June 2024
Founding Purpose
The Waikato River Authority was established in 2010 as the custodian of Te Ture Whaimana o Te Awa o Waikato (the Vision and Strategy for the Waikato River). The Authority is also the body responsible for overseeing the implementation of the clean-up of the river as the sole trustee of the Waikato River Clean-up Trust.
The Waikato River Authority (Authority) is a statutory body formed under the Waikato-Tainui Raupatu Claims (Waikato River) Settlement Act 2010,the Ngati Tūwharetoa, Raukawa, and Te Arawa River Iwi Waikato River Act 2010, and with additional responsibilities arising from the Nga Wai o Maniapoto (Waipā River) Act 2012 (and He Mahere Taiao – The Maniapoto Iwi Environmental Management Plan).
Te Ture Whaimana o Te Awa o Waikato, incorporated in the settlement legislation, is taken from the lament by Kiingi Taawhiao, the second Māori King, in which he recorded his adoration for the Waikato River and the significance of the River as a treasure for all generations:
Tooku awa koiora me oona pikonga he kura tangihia o te maataamuri.
The river of life, each curve more beautiful than the last.
Our vision is for a future where a healthy Waikato River sustains abundant life and prosperous communities who, in turn, are all responsible for restoring and protecting the health and wellbeing of the Waikato River, and all it embraces, for generations to come.
These objectives encompass all people of the River and their relationships with it – through their communities, industries, recreation, social and cultural pursuits.
The Authority has ten Board Members, five of whom are appointed by each of the River Iwi and five appointed by the Crown.
Medium to Long Term Goals
The timeline to achieve Te Ture Whaimana is intergenerational. However, while the river system as a whole may require many decades to be fully restored and
protected, there are elements to a healthy Waikato River that can, and must, be achieved at a greater pace.
The purpose of the Authority is defined in legislation as:
• Set the primary direction through the Vision and Strategy to achieve the restoration and protection of the health and wellbeing of the Waikato River for future generations
• Promote an integrated, holistic, and co-ordinated approach to the implementation of the Vision and Strategy and the management of the Waikato River
• Fund rehabilitation initiatives for the Waikato River in its role as trustee for the Waikato River Clean-up Trust.
The Trust reviews funding priorities annually to ensure funding continues to be aligned with the objectives of the Trust and the Authority. Annually the Authority publishes its Funding Strategy to continue to support the work our communities do to restore and protect the Waikato River catchment which includes the Waipā River and its tributaries.
Current Period Responsibilities
The Trust administers and distributes a contestable fund to work towards the restoration and protection of the health and wellbeing of the Waikato River for present and future generations (this forms the Trust’s objective). In doing so it must pay adequate regard to the Vision & Strategy and the Waikato River Independent Scoping Study (WRISS).
As the sole trustee the Authority determines which projects receive funding in accordance with criteria set annually.
Description and Quantification of Outputs
The following Statement of Service Performance key performance measures have been chosen due to these aligning with the fundamentals of the Authority Vision and Strategy (completed projects):
• Iwi lead and Iwi partnership projects
• Number of native and non-native trees and shrubs planted
• Kilometres of waterways fenced
• Community engagement events held, and people attending these events
• Hectares of land restored
• Total investment by project.
Key Performance Measures
10
Iwi led and iwi partnership projects*
1,279,869
trees and shrubs planted 205 kilometres of waterway fenced
43
community engagement events held, and
3,375 people attended these events
1,214 hectares of land restored
12
Iwi led and iwi partnership projects*
263,660 trees and shrubs planted
49 kilometres of waterway fenced 104
community engagement events held, and
2,698 people attended these events
216 hectares of land restored
* These are projects led or partnered by Iwi Authority, Hapū, ra or designated Marae representative.
Funded Projects
2023 – 2024
WRA 23-015 Waikato Regional Council
WRA 23-038 Puniu River Care
WRA 23-026 Tainui Group Holdings
WRA 23-011 Waikato RiverCare Incorporated
1,552,500 Waipā catchment plan erosion and sediment reduction – 2024-2027
1,253,197 Te Manawanui o Waipā – 2023
Te Paroa – Tainui Rd Farm Taiao Restoration Project – Stage 3
Barbour Farms – Te Waotu Wetland
WRA 23-003 Ngati Tahu-Ngati Whaoa Runanga Trust 238,596 Restoration and Protection of Waiotapu Reserve – Stage 2
WRA 23-042 Kapenga M Trust 289,720 Kapenga Wetland Restoration
WRA 23-006 Enterprise 303 Ltd 58,616 Te Kauri Marae Farm Project 3: Lake Okowhao catchment
WRA 23-027 Pokaiwhenua Catchment Group
WRA 23-046 Mrs Jude Eades
Pokaiwhenua Catchment Group (PCG) Enhancement Project
Mangapiko Stream Headwaters Wetland Restoration Project
WRA 23-016 Tūrangawaewae Trust Board in partnership with Fonterra Co-operative Group Ltd 65,061 Te Puea Hērangi – Wetland Restoration: Stage 2
WRA 23-005 Enterprise 303 Limited 76,165 Morepork Puna Restoration Lake Waahi Catchment
WRA 23-050 Mr Stuart McLean in partnership with Bruce Chipman 13,500 Mangatangi Stream Restoration
WRA 23-031 Mr Taroi Rawiri
Tikirahi Urupa Restoration Project
WRA 23-035 Kukutaaruhe Education Trust – The Fairfield Project 101,500 The Fairfield Project
WRA 23-040 Ms Amelia Paget 98,000 Hodderville Farms – Dairy One – Flow path Intervention/ Bunding project
WRA 23-034 Te Runanga o Ngati Kea Ngati Tuara Trust 26,162 Te Oha and Herewahine Planting Project
WRA 23-048 Apakura Ruunanga Trust 400,000 He Tangi Apakura ki te Repo
WRA 23-028 Wai Ora River Care Ltd
WRA 23-039 Raukawa Charitable Trust
Te Awa o Mangatea
129,700 Te Uraura: Assessment and evaluation of Te Rautaki Taiao a Raukawa – The Raukawa Environmental Management Plan (REMP)
WRA 23-012 Waikato RiverCare Incorporated 98,226 Hamilton Farm Project
WRA 23-010 Mr Warrick de Groen 45,000 The Tangirau Family Trust Gully Improvement and Native Tree reestablishment
WRA 23-033 Tūwharetoa Trust Board
Tūwharetoa Māori Trust Board Fisheries Management Plan
WRA 23-045 Ngaa Muka Development Trust 67,302 Raa Koorero Tuku Iho a Ngaa Taonga o Ngaa Muka
WRA 23-024 Mr Duncan Oliver
WRA 23-025 Nga Muka Development Trust in partnership with Winton Lands Ltd
WRA 23-037 Te Whakakitenga o Waikato Incorporated (TWOW)
WRA 23-041 Waikato Regional Council
WRA 23-020 Hamilton City Council
WRA 23-023 Oji Fibre Solutions
Rangitoto Lands wetlands protection project
E tu Kahikatea o Waikare
Visualising Whangamarino
Yellow flag iris control – Waikato River and Lake Waikare
Waiwhakareke Natural Heritage Park (Waiwhakareke) – wetland restoration and predator exclusion project
Associate Professor Dan Hikuroa presents at the symposium.
Waikato River
2023
WRA 22-003 Waikato RiverCare Incorporated in partnership with Pokaiwhenua Catchment Group
90,000 Pokaiwhenua Stream Restoration Project –Courtney and Alex Graham Farm
WRA 22-005 Waikato RiverCare Incorporated 40,325 Churchill Farm Project Opuatia Wetland
WRA 22-006 Riverdale Trust
95,425 Mangaorongo Stream Restoration Project – Stage 2
WRA 22-007 Waikato RiverCare Incorporated 18,375 Priority restoration of Mangawara lagoons/wetlands site 24
WRA 22-009 Pokaiwhenua Catchment Group 99,946 Pokaiwhenua Catchment Group (PCG) Enhancement Project
WRA 22-010 Deep Dive Division
WRA 22-013 Wattle Downs
WRA 22-015 Raukawa Charitable Trust
WRA 22-016 Waikato Regional Council (working with Waikato kura)
WRA 22-017 New Zealand Landcare Trust in partnership with Taiea Te Taiao – Maungatautari to Pirongia Ecological Corridor Project
WRA 22-019 Ngāti Tahu – Ngāti Whaoa Runanga Trust
250,000 Beyond the Surface – Scan, Salvage and Restoration of Waikato Awa
200,000 Protection and Enhancement of the Whangamarino Wetland
360,703 Te Ia Te Awa (Wāhi Ahurei)
331,200 Kura Waitii ki Kura Waitaa – River Schools to Moana Schools
443,090 Taiea te Taiao Mā Mangapiko, mai i Maungatautari ki Pirongia ahu ake. (Cherish the environment following the Mangapiko, from Maungatautari to Pirongia and beyond)
76,362 He Pou Kainga: Preservation of an ancient Pa Site
WRA 22-021 Riparian Developments Ltd 49,228 2716 Arapuni Road
WRA 22-026 Purehina Trust in partnership with Waikato-Tainui
WRA 22-028 Waikato Regional Council (working with private landowners and local iwi contractors)
WRA 22-030 Te Nehenehenui Trust (formerly Maniapoto Māori Trust Board)
WRA 22-032 Tainui Group Holdings Limited
WRA 22-033 Waikato Regional Council in partnership with Ngāti Hauā Mahi Trust
WRA 22-036 Raukawa Charitable Trust
WRA 22-037 Waikato Regional Council (working with private landowners and local Iwi contractors)
WRA 22-040 Waipā Rere Noa Inc.
WRA 22-042 Tūrangawaewae Trust Board in partnership with Fonterra Co-operative Group Ltd
32,000 Te Kakenga ki te Rangi Puna Restoration
99,949 Waipā River Protection and Enhancement – Toa's Bridge to Ōtorohanga
183,891 Te Mauri o Waiwaiā – Maniapoto Cultural Assessment Framework
250,000 Hangawera Station & Mangatea Farm Taiao Restoration Project – Stage 2
402,739 Ngāti Hauā Mahi Trust & Waikato Regional Council Partnership Project – Karapiro and Mangaonua Catchments
371,151 Te Rōnihi o Ngā Waka o Waipapa
1,337,286 Ngā Wai o Waikato – Stage 2 (2024-2027)
510,300 Waipā Rere Noa Inc. – Stage 2
29,875 Te Puea Hērangi Wetland Restoration – Stage 1
2023
WRA 22-045 Lynlyse Farm Limited
WRA 22-046 Otamatea Trust
WRA 22-048 Kaitiakitanga Charitable Trust
WRA 22-049 Manawanui Developments Limited Partnership, Ngāti Koroki Kahukura
WRA 22-052 Te Arawa River Iwi Trust
Excludes withdrawn projects.
91,800 Lynlyse Farm Restoration Project
215,509 Topo Kaku
70,785 Malvern Properties Ltd, bordered by the Puniu & Waipā Rivers, Frontier & Papesch Rds Pirongia
48,000 Mai i te Maunga ki te Awa – Ngāti Koroki Kahukura Biodiversity Enhancement Programme
22,000 TARIT RiverTag
5,719,939
More information on funded projects is available at www.waikatoriver.org.nz
Many of the completed projects are featured in our Project Stories section of the website. You can also search the projects by number on our Funded Projects map, also on the website.
Associate Professor Bradley Moggridge and others view the Waipā River.
Kihikihi School Children
Lend a Hand
Saige Du Plessis (left) and Amelia Larsen were two of a busload of Kihikihi School children who took a day out of the classroom to help native trees thrive by weeding around them in a gully under the shadow of Mt Pirongia.
The tamariki were weeding a large gully wetland on Malvern Properties Limited. The aim of the project by the Kaitiakitanga Charitable Trust is to return the gully system and other retired land to their original state so native trees can have a place to thrive. The school visits involve hands-on activities to educate those involved about the importance of environmental enhancement work.
To watch a video of Kihikihi school children helping native trees thrive, scan the QR code.
Completed Projects
1 July 2023 to 30 June 2024
WRA 12-034 Department of Conservation
Restoration of Lake Areare
WRA 13-032 Waterside Planters (taken over from Waahi Whaanui Trust in 2022) 103,258 Kimihia Restoration Project
WRA 13-038 Waterside Planters (taken over from Tainui Development Authority in 2021)
WRA 16-017 Waikato Regional Council
1,058,937 Riparian Management at various locations along Waikato River between Huntly and Rangiriri Bridge
Enhancement of the Whangamarino Wetland and catchment
WRA 17-004 Puniu River Care 777,440 Nga Kaitiaki o te awa o Puniu – Guardians of the Puniu River
WRA 17-034 Range View Farms
WRA 18-005 Ngāti Tahu-Ngāti Whaoa Rūnanga Trust
WRA 18-027 NZ Farm Environment Trust
WRA 18-042 Mr Alan Wills
Range View Farms Restoration Project
Restoration of Wai-o-Tapu Geothermal area
Waikato River Authority Catchment Improvement Award
Double A Oaks Wharekaunga Stream Riparian and Wetland Restoration Project
WRA 18-044 Mr Barrie Stewart 18,846 Rangaakiaki Stream Wetland Restoration Project
WRA 18-045 Mr Malcolm Cane
WRA19-059 Puniu River Care
WRA 20-018 Waikato Regional Council
16,362 Cane Hill Country Erosion Protection and Remediation – Upper Torepatutahi Stream Project
606,781 Te Manawanui o Waipā
180,554 Restoring Minimum Water Level at Lake Kimihia
WRA 20-022 Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Kea Ngāti Tuara Trust 91,097 Te Waea Wetland
WRA 20-035 Mr Poihipi Kukutai
266,529 Te Puke o Tahinga
WRA 20-039 D & L Gamble Ltd 86,475 Tunaeke Stream Restoration Project
WRA 20-055 Waikato Regional Council
WRA 20-057 Puniu River Care
WRA 20-062 Rina Lawson
201,250 Central Waikato hill country and stream erosion protection and remediation projects
592,709 Te Manawanui o Waipā 2020
7,460 Reconnecting Ngāti Ahuru to the Pokaiwhenua awa Project Plan
WRA 20-068 Tūhourangi Tribal Authority 99,139 Whirinaki Wetland Restoration Project
WRA 21-017 Te Kawau Environmental Services Ltd
40,885 Ngā Puna o Mangaokewa me Mangapu ki Waipā: Te hononga tutahi ki te Taiao
WRA 21-024 Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Kea Ngāti Tuara Trust
WRA 21-026 Riparian Developments
WRA 21-032 R & N Hathaway 2009 Family Trust
159,014 Mangakarā Wetland and Herewahine Tributary
69,825 Riparian management – 2716 Arapuni Road
7,270 Paeroa Ranges Hathaway Protection Programme
WRA 21-043 Te Arawa River Iwi Trust 6,903 TARIT Tira Hoe Educational Booklet
WRA 21-044 Te Arawa River Iwi Trust
21,400 TARIT Waka Safety Course 2022 – Hinemoa Waka & Water Safety Program
WRA 20-052 & WRA21-046 Waikato Regional Council 1,554,673 Lower Waikato hill country and stream erosion protection and remediation projects – 2021, 2022, 2023
WRA 21-055 Katalia Limited
97,650 Piarere Conservation Project
WRA 21-057 Ōtorohanga District Council 52,828 Te Ara a Waiwaiā – Waipā River Enhancement Phase 1
WRA 22-010 Mr Tua Karalus
250,000 Beyond the Surface – Scan, Salvage and Restoration of Waikato Awa
WRA 22-021 Riparian Developments Ltd 40,171 2716 Arapuni Road
WRA 22-026 Purehina Trust in partnership with Waikato-Tainui
WRA 22-042 Turangawaewae Trust Board in partnership with Fonterra Co-operative Group Ltd
32,000 Te Kakenga ki te Rangi Puna Restoration
26,781 Te Puea Hērangi – Wetland Restoration: Stage 1
7,041,657
2023
WRA 11-070 Raukawa Charitable Trust
WRA 13-053 Waikato RiverCare Incorporated
WRA 14-005 Dairy NZ Ltd
WRA 15-023 Beef and Lamb NZ
WRA 16-004 Puniu River Care Inc
WRA 16-005 NZ Landcare Trust
WRA 16-017 Waikato Regional Council
WRA 16-020 Waikato Regional Council
WRA 16-022 Waikato RiverCare Incorporated
WRA 16-029 Debbie Barke
WRA 16-031 Te Whakakitenga o Waikato Incorporated
WRA 17-003 Ngati Haua Mahi Trust
The Ongaroto Wetland Restoration & Pest Management Control Programme
River Ride/River Care – Ngaruawahia South
Wetland Showcase for Farm Nutrient Attenuation
Sheep and Beef Farmers – Working for the Waikato
Wharekorino Wetland Enhancement Project
Restoration of Lake Millicich, Henderson's Pond and Lake Ngarotoiti
Enhancement of the Whangamarino Wetland and catchment
Lake Whangape Southern Arm Planting Project – Phase 2
Mangawara Tuna and Wildlife Oxbow Project
Wetland Restoration – Lake Ngahewa Catchment
Waikare Urupa Restoration
Ngā Puna o Mangaonua me Mangaone ki Waikato – Ecological Catchments Plan implementation
WRA 17-009 Waikato RiverCare Incorporated 29,169 North Waikato Projects
WRA 17-011 Gina Williams
WRA 17-012 Ngāti Tahu-Ngāti Whaoa Rūnanga Trust
Maungatautari Wetland Restoration – Stage 4
Ohaki Wetland Enhancement
WRA 17-021 Keith Lambeth 21,011 Lake Downs Hill Country Erosion Management Project
WRA 18-003 Waikato RiverCare Incorporated
Butler Farm Tuhikaramea Stream Restoration
WRA 18-018 Te Arawa River Iwi Trust 14,400 Building Iwi Capacity Mātauranga
WRA18-037 Waiterimu Golf Club
WRA 18-053 National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research (NIWA)
Waiterimu Golf Club Stock Exclusion and Riparian Planting Project
400,000 Analysis of trends and indicators for the WRA 5-yearly report & preparing for the 2025 Waikato River Report Card
WRA19-030 Hamish Browne and Robyn Budd 14,545 Black Pond Farm, Mangatangi Stream Restoration
WRA19-032 Raukawa Charitable Trust
89,206 Te Ārohirohi o Raukawa i Waikato (The Shimmer of Raukawa on the Waikato River)
WRA19-033 Maniapoto Māori Trust Board 175,140 Maniapoto Cultural Assessment Framework Implementation
WRA19-069 Mark Muir
WRA 20-053 Te Arawa River Iwi Trust
26,772 Lake Rotoiti Enhancement Project
152,000 Ruahuwai Takiwa – 2.0 Smart Land Use Change
WRA 20-063 Whakaupoko West Franklin Landcare Group 20,000 Reconnecting Waikato River to the Manukau Harbour primarily via the Awaroa River
WRA 20-067 Te Arawa River Iwi Trust 34,000 TARIT Fisheries Plan Update
WRA 20-068 Tūhourangi Tribal Authority 99,139 Whirinaki Restoration Project
WRA 21-010 Duncan Oliver 19,999 Rangitoto Lands Wetlands Protection Project
WRA 21-036 Waikato Regional Council 61,209 Opuatia Wetland Restoration: Phase 1 – Restoration Planting
WRA 21-047 Tūrangawaewae Trust Board 8,568 Te Puea Hērangi – Wetland Restoration 3,060,512
Kamilaroi man Associate Professor Bradley Moggridge presents at the symposium.
Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Revenue & Expense
For the year ended 30 June 2024 – In New Zealand dollars The accompanying notes form part of these consolidated financial statements.
*Subject to the Waikato-Tainui Raupatu Claims (Waikato River) Settlement Act 2010 the Group is to receive settlement funds of $210,000,000 over 27 years (14 years remaining). Additional settlement funds of $10,000,000 will be received over 27 years (14 years remaining) under the Nga Wai o Manipoto (Waipā River) Act 2012. Subject to the continuation of Resource Consent AUTH131259.01.01, the Group is to receive funding of $42,000,000 over 20 years (the life of the consent, 18 years remaining). Refer to note 10 for further details.
Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity
For the year ended 30 June 2024 – In New Zealand dollars
The accompanying notes form part of these consolidated financial statements.
Consolidated Statement of Financial Position
As at 30 June 2024 – In New Zealand dollars
Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows
For the year ended 30 June 2024 – In New Zealand dollars
Statement of Accounting Policies
For the year ended 30 June 2024
1. Reporting entity
These consolidated financial statements comprise Waikato River Authority (the "Authority") and the Waikato River Cleanup Trust (the "Trust"), together referred to as the "Group", and have been established by virtue of the provision of section 32 (2) of the Waikato-Tainui Raupatu Claims (Waikato River) Settlement Act 2010 and section 33 (2) of the Ngati Tuwharetoa, Raukawa, and Te Arawa River Iwi Waikato River Act 2010. These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with schedule 5 of the Waikato-Tainui Raupatu Claims (Waikato River) Settlement Act 2010. Further legislation was enacted in April 2012 and the Group has to meet its obligations in accordance with the Nga Wai o Maniapoto (Waipā River) Act 2012 from the Act's establishment.
The Group has been established to restore and protect the health and wellbeing of the Waikato River for future generations. Accordingly the Group has designated itself as a public benefit entity ("PBE") for financial reporting purposes.
The consolidated financial statements are as at and for the year ended 30 June 2024.
The consolidated financial statements were approved by the Co-Chairs on 11 October 2024.
2. Basis of preparation
a. Going concern
The consolidated financial statements have been prepared on the going concern basis, and the accounting policies have been applied consistently throughout the period.
b. Statement of compliance
The consolidated financial statements of the Group have been prepared in accordance with New Zealand Generally Accepted Accounting Practice (“NZ GAAP”)
The Group has designated itself as a public benefit entity (PBE) for the purposes of complying with NZ GAAP.
The consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with and comply with PBE standards RDR (Tier 2). The Group is eligible to report under PBE standards RDR (Tier 2) as it is not defined as a large entity and has no public accountability (as defined) but has expenses over $2 million and less than $30 million.
The Group has taken advantage of all Reduced Disclosure Regime (RDR) disclosure concessions, however it has elected to still provide a cash and cash equivalents accounting policy and disclose the amount of additional grant provisions made in note 15.
c. Basis of measurement
The consolidated financial statements have been prepared on the historical cost basis, except where modified by the revaluation of certain financial instruments.
d. Presentation currency and rounding
These consolidated financial statements are presented in New Zealand dollars ($) and all values are rounded to the nearest dollar.
e. Use of estimates and judgements
The preparation of consolidated financial statements requires management to make judgements, estimates and assumptions that affect the application of accounting policies and the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenue and expenses. Actual results may differ from these estimates.
Estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions to accounting estimates are recognised in the period in which the estimate is revised and in any future periods affected.
f. Business combination
Controlled entities are entities controlled by the Group. The Group ‘controls’ an entity when it is exposed, or has rights, to variable benefits from its involvement with the other entity and has the ability to affect the nature or amount of those benefits through its power over the other entity. The financial statements of controlled entities are included in the consolidated financial statements from the date on which control commences until the date on which control ceases. The Authority controls the Trust and as such the consolidated financial statements have been presented. Intra-group balances and transactions, and any unrealised income and expenses arising from intra-group transactions, are eliminated on consolidation.
3. Significant accounting policies
a. Financial instruments
i) Non-derivative financial instruments
Non-derivative financial instruments comprise investments in term deposits, receivables, cash and cash equivalents and payables.
Non-derivative financial instruments are recognised initially at fair value, plus, for instruments not at fair value, they are recognised through the Statement of Comprehensive Revenue & Expense with any directly attributable transaction costs. Subsequent to initial recognition non-derivative financial instruments are measured as described below.
A financial instrument is recognised if the Group becomes a party to the contractual provisions of the instrument. Financial assets are derecognised if the Group’s contractual rights to the cash flows from the financial assets expire or if the Group transfers the financial asset to another party without retaining control or substantially all risks and rewards of the asset. Purchases and sales of financial assets are accounted for at trade date, i.e., the date that the Group commits itself to purchase or sell the asset. Financial liabilities are derecognised if the Group’s obligations specified in the contract expire or are discharged or cancelled.
Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents comprise cash balances, call deposits and other highly liquid investments with maturities of three months or less. Bank overdrafts that are repayable on demand and form an integral part of the Group’s cash management are included as a component of cash and cash equivalents for the purpose of the Statement of Cash Flows.
Fair value through other comprehensive revenue and expense/available for sale
Financial assets at fair value through other comprehensive revenue and expense are those that are designated into the category at initial recognition or are not classified in any of the other categories above. They are included in non-current assets unless management intends to dispose of, or realise, the investment within 12 months of balance date. The Group includes in this category:
• investments that it intends to hold long-term but which may be realised before maturity; and
• shareholdings that it holds for strategic purposes.
These investments are measured at their fair value, with gains and losses recognised in other comprehensive revenue & expense, except for impairment losses, which are recognised in surplus or deficit. The gain or loss does not include interest or dividend income. On derecognition, the cumulative gain or loss previously recognised in other comprehensive revenue and expense is reclassified from equity to surplus or deficit.
Receivables
Receivables are recorded at the amount due less any provision for uncollectability.
Payables
Payables are recorded at the amount payable.
Loans and receivables
Loans and receivables are non-derivative financial assets with fixed or determinable payments that are not quoted in an active market. They are included in current assets, except for maturities greater than 12 months after balance date, which are included in non-current assets.
3. Significant accounting policies (continued)
b. Impairment
The carrying amounts of the Group’s assets are reviewed at each balance sheet date to determine whether there is any objective evidence of impairment. An impairment loss is recognised whenever the carrying amount of an asset exceeds its recoverable amount. Impairment losses directly reduce the carrying amount of assets and are recognised in the surplus or deficit.
i) Impairment of loans and receivables
Impairment losses on an individual basis are determined by an evaluation of the exposures on an instrument by instrument basis. All individual instruments that are considered significant are subject to this approach.
For receivables which are not significant on an individual basis, collective impairment is assessed on a portfolio basis based on numbers of days overdue, and taking into account the historical loss experience in portfolios with a similar amount of days overdue.
The recoverable amount of the Group's loans and receivables carried at amortised cost is calculated as the present value of estimated future cash flows, discounted at the original effective interest rate (i.e., the effective interest rate computed at initial recognition of these financial assets). Receivables with short duration are not discounted.
If, in a subsequent period, the amount of the impairment loss decreases and the decrease can be related objectively to an event occurring after the impairment was recognised, the previously recognised impairment loss is reversed. The reversal does not result in a carrying amount of the financial asset that exceeds what the amortised cost would have been had the impairment not been recognised at the date the impairment is reversed. The amount of the reversal is recognised in the Statement of Comprehensive Revenue & Expense.
c. Revenue
Revenue is measured at fair value. Revenue may be derived from either exchange or non-exchange transactions.
Exchange transactions
Exchange transactions are transactions where the Group receives assets or services, or has liabilities extinguished, and directly gives approximately equal value to another entity in exchange.
The Group receives the following exchange revenue streams:
i) Interest and dividends
Interest revenue is recognised using the effective interest method. Dividends are recognised when the Group’s right to receive the payment is established.
ii) Services
Revenue from services rendered is recognised in surplus or deficit in proportion to the stage of completion of the transaction at the balance date. The stage of completion is measured with reference to the project milestones.
Non-exchange transactions
These are all other transactions that are not exchange transactions.
The Group receives the following non-exchange revenue streams:
i) Government grants
Grants received from the government are the primary source of funding to the Group and are restricted for the purposes of the Group meeting its objectives as specified in the Waikato-Tainui Raupatu Claims (Waikato River) Settlement Act 2010. If the Group is unable to cover its operating costs from government funding, then it is able to use cash from its reserves. Government grants are recognised as revenue when they become receivable unless there is an obligation to return the funds if conditions of the grant are not met. If there is such an obligation, then the grants are initially recorded as grants received in advance and recognised as revenue when conditions of the grant are satisfied.
Settlement grants are measured at the present value of the revenue expected to be required to settle the obligation using a pre-tax discount rate that reflects current market assessments of the time value of money and the risks specific to the obligation. The increase in the settlement grants due to the passage of time is recognised in finance revenue.
ii) Other funding received
Other funding is recognised as revenue when it becomes receivable unless there is an obligation to return the funds if conditions of the funding is not met. If there is such an obligation, then the funding are initially recorded as funding received in advance and recognised as revenue when conditions of the funding is satisfied.
Other funding is measured at the present value of the revenue expected to be required to settle the obligation using a pre-tax discount rate that reflects current market assessments of the time value of money and the risks specific to the obligation. The increase in the other funding due to the passage of time is recognised in finance revenue
iii) Unwind discount on funding receivable
The increase in the government settlement grants and other funding due to the passage of time is recognised in finance revenue as an unwind discount on funding receivable.
d. Finance revenue and expenses
Finance revenue comprises interest revenue on funds invested and gains on the disposal of available-for-sale financial assets. Interest revenue is recognised as it accrues, using the effective interest method.
Finance expenses comprise interest expense on borrowings, unwinding of discount on provisions, changes in the fair value of financial assets at fair value through surplus or deficit and impairment losses recognised on financial assets (except for receivables).
e. Grant expenditure
Grants are those grants awarded if the grant application meets the specified criteria and have been approved by the Board. These are recognised as expenditure based on the deliverables and timeframe set out in the signed funding deeds.
All grants will be recognised as an expense as the conditions of the grants are satisfied. Grants that are not recognised are recorded as funding commitments.
For grants under $50,000, an 80% payment is made upfront and the remaining is paid on completion of the project. Grants over $50,000 require evidence of deliverables completed before payment is made.
f. Property, plant and equipment
Property, plant, and equipment consists of the following asset classes: motor vehicles, plant & equipment, artwork, buildings and land.
The asset classes are measured at cost, less accumulated depreciation and impairment losses.
Additions
The cost of an item of property, plant, and equipment is recognised as an asset only when it is probable that future economic benefits or service potential associated with the item will flow to the Group and the cost of the item can be measured reliably.
In most instances, an item of property, plant, and equipment is initially recognised at its cost. Where an asset is acquired at no cost, or for a nominal cost, it is recognised at its fair value as at the date of acquisition.
Disposals
Gains and losses on disposals are determined by comparing the proceeds with the carrying amount of the asset.
Gains and losses on disposals are reported net in the surplus or deficit.
Subsequent costs
Costs incurred subsequent to initial acquisition are capitalised only when it is probable that future economic benefits or service potential associated with the item will flow to the Group and the cost of the item can be measured reliably.
The costs of day-to-day servicing of property, plant, and equipment are recognised in surplus or deficit as they are incurred.
3. Significant accounting policies (continued)
Depreciation
Depreciation is provided on a straight-line basis on all property, plant, and equipment other than land and artwork, at rates that will write-off the cost of the assets to their estimated residual values over their useful lives. The useful lives and depreciation rates of major classes of property, plant, and equipment have been estimated as follows:
The residual value and useful life of an asset is reviewed, and adjusted if applicable, at each financial year end.
g. Intangible assets
Software acquisition and development
Acquired computer software licenses are capitalised on the basis of the costs incurred to acquire and bring to use the specific software.
Costs that are directly associated with the development of software for internal use are recognised as an intangible asset. Direct costs include the software development employee costs and an appropriate portion of relevant overheads.
Staff training costs are recognised in surplus or deficit when incurred.
Costs associated with maintaining computer software are recognised as an expense when incurred.
Amortisation
The carrying value of an intangible asset with a finite life is amortised on a straight-line basis over its useful life.
Amortisation begins when the asset is available for use and ceases at the date that the asset is derecognised.
The amortisation charge for each period is recognised in surplus or deficit. The estimated useful lives for current and comparative periods are as follows:
h. Impairment of property, plant, and equipment and intangible assets
The Group does not hold any cash generating assets. Assets are considered cash generating when their primary objective is to generate a commercial return.
Non-cash generating assets
Property, plant and equipment and intangible assets held at cost that have a finite useful life are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable.
An impairment loss is recognised for the amount by which the asset's carrying amount exceeds its recoverable amount. The recoverable amount is the higher of an asset's fair value less costs to sell and value in use.
Value in use is determined using an approach based on either a depreciated replacement cost approach, restoration cost approach, or a service units approach. The most appropriate approach used to measure value in use depends on the nature of the impairment and availability of information.
If an asset's carrying amount exceeds its recoverable amount, the asset is regarded as impaired and the carrying amount is written-down to the recoverable amount. The total impairment loss is recognised in surplus or deficit. The reversal of an impairment loss is recognised in surplus or deficit.
i. Provisions
A provision is recognised for future expenditure of uncertain amount or timing when there is a present obligation (either legal or constructive) as a result of a past event, it is probable that expenditure will be required to settle the obligation, and a reliable estimate can be made of the amount of the obligation. Provisions are not recognised for future operating losses.
Provisions are measured at the present value of the expenditure expected to be required to settle the obligation using a pre-tax discount rate that reflects current market assessments of the time value of money and the risks specific to the obligation. The increase in the provision due to the passage of time is recognised in finance expenses.
j. Taxation
In accordance with schedule 5 of Waikato-Tainui Raupatu Claims (Waikato River) Settlement Act 2010 the Authority and Trust have been granted exemption from income tax. Income Tax Act 2007 section CW 1 specifies non business revenue will be exempt from tax. The Authority and Trust have been granted charitable status by the Charities Commission and are registered as charities.
k. Goods and Services Tax (GST)
The Trust is registered for GST and all balances are stated exclusive of GST, except for receivables and payables which are presented inclusive of GST.
The GST paid to, or received from the IRD, including the GST relating to investing and financing activities, is classified as an operating cash flow in the Statement of Cash Flows.
Commitments and contingencies are disclosed exclusive of GST.
The Authority is not registered for GST, therefore all amounts relating to the Authority are stated inclusive of GST.
l. Equity
Equity is measured as the difference between total assets and total liabilities. Equity is disaggregated into the following components:
• Retained earnings
• Financial assets at fair value through other comprehensive revenue and expense reserve.
Revaluation reserve
This reserve comprises the cumulative net change of financial assets classified at fair value through other comprehensive revenue and expense (otherwise known as "available for sale" financial assets).
m. Critical accounting estimates and assumptions
In preparing these financial statements, the Group has made estimates and assumptions concerning the future. These estimates and assumptions may differ from the subsequent actual results. Estimates and assumptions are continually evaluated and are based on historical experience and other factors, including expectations of future events that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances. The estimates and assumptions that have a significant risk of causing a material adjustment to the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities within the next financial year are discussed below:
i) Settlement and other funds and funding receivable
Refer to note 10
ii) Grant provisions
Refer to note 15
Keynote speaker Hinerangi Kara talked about the Mangeroa Gully Restoration project at the symposium.
Notes to the Financial Statements
the year ended 30 June 2024 4.
The Crown provides $910,000 directly to the Authority to cover reasonable operational costs for the Group. These transactions have been recognised in the Statement of Comprehensive Revenue & Expense.
6. Other expenses
7. Grants
7. Grants (continued)
The carrying value of cash at bank and short-term deposits with maturities less than three months approximates their fair value.
Portfolio call accounts
Portfolio call accounts are recognised at fair value. The fair value of the portfolio call accounts are determined by reference to published current bid price quotations in an active market.
Cash funds
Cash funds are recognised at fair value. The fair value of the cash funds are determined by reference to published current bid price quotations in an active market.
9. Receivables
Short term receivables are recorded at the amount due, less any provision for uncollectability. A receivable is considered uncollectible when there is evidence that the amount due will not be fully collected. The amount that is uncollectible is the difference between the amount due and the present value of the amount expected to be collected.
10. Funding receivables
Under the terms of the Waikato-Tainui Raupatu Claims (Waikato River) Settlement Act 2010, the Trust is to receive $7,000,000 each year over the next 14 years in settlement funding. This revenue has been recognised upfront and the related receivable has been discounted back at 6.0% which was the upfront treasury risk-free discount rate at settlement. The funding receivable of $98,000,000 has been discounted by $32,935,113 to provide the present value of $65,064,887.
Under the terms of the Nga Wai o Maniapoto (Waipā River) Act 2012, the Trust is to receive $1,333,333 in year one and $333,333 each year after over the next 14 years in settlement funding. This revenue has been recognised upfront and the related receivable has been discounted back at 4.63% which was the treasury risk-free rate at 30 June 2012. The funding receivable of $4,666,607 has been discounted by $1,287,658 to provide the present value of $3,379,009.
Under the terms of the consent granted to Watercare Services Limited, the Trust is to receive $4,000,000 in year one and $2,000,000 each year after over the next 18 years in settlement funding. This revenue has been recognised upfront and the related receivable has been discounted back at 4.69% which is the treasury risk-free rate as at 31 May 2023. The funding receivable of $36,000,000 has been discounted by $12,004,018 to provide the present value of $23,995,892.
11. Other financial assets
Fair value
Term deposits
The carrying amount of term deposits approximates their fair value.
Listed shares
Listed shares are recognised at fair value. The fair values of listed shares are determined by reference to published current bid price quotations in an active market.
Bonds
Bonds are recognised at fair value. The fair value of the bonds are determined by reference to published current bid price quotations in an active market.
Speciality funds
Speciality funds are recognised at fair value. The fair value of the speciality funds are determined by reference to published current bid price quotations in an active market.
Fair value hierarchy disclosures
For those instruments recognised at fair value in the Statement of Financial Position, fair values are determined according to quoted market price (level 1) – Financial instruments with quoted prices for identical instruments in active markets.
Impairment
There were no impairment expenses or provisions for other financial assets. At balance date, none of these financial assets are either past due or impaired.
12. Property, plant and equipment
Impairment
There have been no impairment losses recognised or reversed for property, plant and equipment (2023: Nil).
Work in progress
The total amount of property, plant and equipment in the course of construction is $1,850. (2023: Nil).
Restrictions
There are no restrictions over the title of property, plant and equipment. No property, plant and equipment are pledged as security for liabilities.
Capital commitments
The Group has no capital commitments (2023: Nil).
13. Intangible assets
14. Payables
15. Provisions
The current portion relates to grants that are due to be paid out in the next financial year.
For grants approved in the 30 June 2019 financial year and future periods the provision is calculated using an estimate of costs incurred but not invoiced to balance date obtained from grant recipients.
For grants approved before the 30 June 2019 financial year the grant provision is calculated by adding together overdue amounts (for grant project milestones completed but not yet invoiced) and a provisional estimate. The estimate pro-ratas the next milestone amount due after balance date over the period of the milestone that falls before balance date. Changes to the next milestone amount or completion date will affect the amount and timing of the outflow of funds.
16. Capital management
The Group manages its revenues, expenses, liabilities, and general financing dealings prudently.
The Group's equity is largely managed as a by-product of managing revenue, expenses, assets, liabilities, and compliance with the Board's instructions. The operating revenue and cash flows, including other comprehensive revenue, more than covers the Group's operating expenses and cash outflows. As a result, the Group capital base is maintained.
International attendees to Te Awa o Waikato River Symposium visited Lake Whangape located north west of Huntly.
17. Financial instruments
Classification and fair values
Watercare representatives Peti Cooper-Slade (far right) and Te Tuanui Paki attended the symposium.
*Also known as fair value through other comprehensive revenue and expense.
18. Operating leases
The Group leases equipment and motor vehicles under an operating lease. The leases run for a period of three years. The Group does not have the option to purchase the asset at the end of the lease term. There are no restrictions placed on the Group by any of the leasing arrangements.
19. Related parties
Related party disclosures have not been made for transactions with related parties that are within a normal supplier or client/recipient relationship on terms and condition no more or less favourable than those that it is reasonable to expect the Group would have adopted in dealing with the party at arm's length in the same circumstances. Related party disclosures have also not been made for transactions with entities related to the Group (such as funding and financing flows), where the transactions are consistent with the normal operating relationships between the entities and are on normal terms and conditions for such transactions
Transactions with key management personnel including appointees
Key management personnel compensation comprised:
1 J Colliar, D
and P
were removed on 17 May 2023.
Tahau,
Southgate
1 J Colliar and D Tahau were removed on 17 May 2023.
The 2024 and comparative presentation of KMP includes the CE and other senior management positions to better reflect the Group's operating model.
Key management personnel have not entered into any transactions with the Group other than the above.
The Group Board members are not involved in approving any grant funding for organisations they are involved in. All grants are approved at an arm's length.
Other related parties
At period end the Trust owed the Authority $493,300 (2023: $691,529) relating to balances incurred by the Authority on behalf of the Trust.
During the year the Group recorded grant expenses for the following funding recipients that are listed on the Group Register of Interests:
Ngaati Tahu-Ngaati Whaoa Runanga Trust
Raukawa Charitable Trust
S Muir
Te Arawa River Iwi Trust
Waikato Regional Council
Waikato Regional Council
Trust Waiwaiā
Stu Muir Owner
Roger Pikia Chair, Trustee
Tipa Mahuta Councillor
Stuart Kneebone Councillor
Wikitōria Tāne Director/Shareholder
Roger Pikia Chair
Nachelle Griffiths Trustee
20. Funding commitments
The Group has funding commitments relating to grant applications for the following funding recipients.
20. Funding commitments (continued)
Grants approved may include multiple grant applications/projects to make up the total included.
21. Contingencies
There are no contingent liabilities at balance date (2023: nil).
22. Subsequent events
The Group has no subsequent events to disclose (2023: nil).
Nigel Banks (far left) and Arna Rose Solomon-Banks are all smiles listening to speakers at the symposium.
Auditor's Report
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT
TO THE READERS OF WAIKATO RIVER GROUP’S GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND PERFORMANCE INFORMATION FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2024.
The Auditor-General is the auditor of Waikato River Group (the Group). The Auditor-General has appointed me, Cameron Town, using the staff and resources of Silks Audit Chartered Accountants Limited, to carry out the audit of the financial statements and performance information of the Group on his behalf.
Opinion
We have audited:
• the financial statements of the Group on pages 34 to 60 that comprise the statement of financial position as at 30 June 2024, the Statement of Comprehensive Revenue and Expense, Statement of Changes in Equity and Statement of Cash Flows for the year ended on that date and the Statement of Accounting Policies and the notes to the financial statements; and
• the performance information of the Group on pages 23 to 33
In our opinion:
the financial statements of the Group:
o present fairly, in all material respects:
- its financial position as at 30 June 2024; and
- its financial performance and cash flows for the year then ended; and
o comply with generally accepted accounting practice in New Zealand in accordance with the Tier 2 Public Benefit Entity Reporting Standards Reduced Disclosure Regime; and
the performance information of the Group presents fairly, in all material respects, the Group’s actual performance compared against the performance targets and other measures by which performance was judged in relation to the Group’s objectives for the year ended 30 June 2024.
Our audit was completed on 11 October 2024. This is the date at which our opinion is expressed.
The basis for our opinion is explained below. In addition, we outline the responsibilities of the Board and our responsibilities relating to the financial statements and the performance information, we comment on other information, and we explain our independence.
Basis for our opinion
We carried out our audit in accordance with the Auditor-General’s Auditing Standards, which incorporate the Professional and Ethical Standards and the International Standards on Auditing (New Zealand) issued by the New Zealand Auditing and Assurance Standards Board. Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Responsibilities of the auditor section of our report.
We have fulfilled our responsibilities in accor dance with the Auditor-General’s Auditing Standards.
We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is su fficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion.
Responsibilities of the Board for the financial statements and the performance information
The Board are responsible on behalf of the Group for preparing financial statements that are fairly presented and that comply with generally accepted accounting practice in New Zealand. The Board are also responsible for preparing the performance information for the Group.
The Board are responsible for such internal control that they determine is necessary to enable them to prepare financial statements and performance information that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.
In preparing the financial statements and the performance information, the Board are responsible on behalf of the Group for assessing the Group’s ability to continue as a going concern. The Board are also responsible for disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting, unless the Board intends to liquidate the Group or to cease operations or have no realistic alternative but to do so.
The Group’s responsibilities arise from schedule 5 of the Waikato-Tainui Raupatu Claims (Waikato River) Settlement Act 2010.
Responsibilities of the auditor for the audit of the financial statements and the performance information
Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements and the performance information, as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor’s report that includes our opinion.
Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance, but is not a guarantee that an audit carried out in accordance with the Auditor-General’s Auditing Standards will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements are differences or omissions of amounts or disclosures, and can arise from fraud or error. Misstatements are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the decisions of readers, taken on the basis of these financial statements and the performance information.
We did not evaluate the security and controls over the electronic publication of the financial statements and the performance information.
As part of an audit in accordance with the Auditor-General’s Auditing Standards, we exercise professional judgement and maintain professional scepticism throughout the audit. Also:
We identify and assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements and the performance information, whether due to fraud or error, design and perform audit procedures responsive to those risks, and obtain audit evidence that is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion. The risk of not detecting a material misstatement resulting from fraud is higher than for one resulting from error, as fraud may involve collusion, forgery, intentional omissions, misrepresentations, or the override of internal control.
We obtain an understanding of internal control relevant to the audit in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Group’s internal control.
We evaluate the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of accounting estimates and related disclosures made by the board.
We evaluate the appropriateness of the reported performance information within the Group’s framework for reporting its performance.
We conclude on the appropriateness of the use of the going concern basis of accounting by the Board and, based on the audit evidence obtained, whether a material uncertainty exists related to events or conditions that may cast significant doubt on the Group’s ability to continue as a going concern. If we conclude that a material uncertainty exists, we are required to draw attention in our auditor’s report to the related disclosures in the financial statements and the performance information or, if such disclosures are inadequate, to modify our opinion. Our conclusions are based on the audit evidence obtained up to the date of our auditor’s report. However, future events or conditions may cause the Group to cease to continue as a going concern.
We evaluate the overall presentation, structure and content of the financial statements and the performance information, including the disclosures, and whether the financial statements and the performance information represent the underlying transactions and events in a manner that achieves fair presentation.
We communicate with the Board regarding, among other matters, the planned scope and timing of the audit and significant audit findings, including any significant deficiencies in internal control that we identify during our audit.
Our responsibilities arise from the Public Audit Act 2001.
Other Information
The Board are responsible for the other information. The other information comprises the information included on pages 2 to 21 but does not include the financial statements, and our auditor’s report thereon.
Our opinion on the financial statements and the performance information does not cover the other information and we do not express any form of audit opinion or assurance conclusion thereon.
In connection with our audit of the financial statements, our responsibility is to read the other information. In doing so, we consider whether the other information is materially inconsistent with the financial statements, or our knowledge obtained in the audit, or otherwise appears to be materially misstated. If, based on our work, we conclude that there is a material misstatement of this other information, we are required to report that fact. We have nothing to report in this regard.
Independence
We are independent of the Group in accordance with the independence requirements of the AuditorGeneral’s Auditing Standards, which incorporate the independence requirements of Professional and Ethical Standard 1: International Code of Ethics for Assurance Practitioners issued by the New Zealand Auditing and Assurance Standards Board. Other than the audit, we have no relationship with, or interests in, the Group.
Cameron Town Silks Audit Chartered Accountants Limited
On behalf of the Auditor-General Whanganui, New Zealand
Waikato te awa katohia, katohia he wai maau!
The current of the Waikato flows onward as a wellspring for you!