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Tooku awa koiora me oona pikonga
he kura tangihia o te maataamuri.
The river of life, each curve
more
beautiful
than the last.
These words form part of the Vision and Strategy for the Waikato River and
are taken from the lament by Kiingii Taawhiao, the second Maaori King, in
which he recorded his adoration for the Waikato River and the significance
of the river as a treasure for all generations. These visionary words inspire
the actions that will be necessary to restore the health and wellbeing of
the Waikato River.
Since the first European settlers arrived in the Waikato region more than
150 years ago, and for Maaori before them, the Waikato River has played a
central role in the economic and social wellbeing of the wider community.
Through the decades, and especially around the mid 20th century, the
Waikato River became increasing degraded. Industrial waste, sewage
and farming run-off have all taken their toll on the wellbeing of the river.
While there have been improvements in recent years there is
still much to be done.
Restoring and protecting the health and wellbeing of the Waikato River
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Waikato River Authority