Historically, the Kokohuia Wetland was a source of kai for local hapū living along the Whanganui River.
During the early development of the city, the area became a key location for industrial development and a landfill was established at this location.
The impacts of stormwater flooding, considerations around future land use, and the need to restore local waterways prompted Whanganui District Council to work with iwi partners and stakeholders on the future of the wetland.
While consulting with Giblin Group, Erin was engaged by Whanganui District Council to research partnership opportunities for the restoration of the wetland and the establishment of an education facility to support understanding of wetland ecology, the river and local history. This required engaging the neighbouring Te Kura Kaupapa Māori o Kokohuia, iwi group Whanganui River Enhancement Trust and the Heads Road Industrial Group.
Council is currently working on a master plan that determines the future restoration and development of the Kokohuia Wetland. See more here.
