Wairau Estuary - Community restoration
Milford, Auckland

The Wairau Estuary in Milford is connected to the inland Wairau Valley Catchment, which stretches several kilometres into the industrialised and commercial heart of the Wairau Valley.

Extensive environmental testing has revealed the presence of common contaminants in the watercourse from industrial land, high traffic roads, and recreational activities in the estuary.  Despite this, up to nine native freshwater fish and crustacean species are found in this waterway.

With support from the passionate locals in Milford and Castor Bay and technical advice from Auckland Council’s Healthy Waters Team, the Devonport-Takapuna Local Board has committed funding to support a cleaner and healthier Wairau Estuary and beach in Milford.  

Conservation Volunteers New Zealand is coordinating with community members and volunteer groups to improve the health of the stream by running rubbish clean-ups and planting days along the edges of the estuary. We’d love to have your help!