Cultural Monitoring in Te Whanganui-ā-Orotū : What you need to know.

Kia ora e te whānau,

We want to share some important information about the recent cultural monitoring efforts in Te Whanganui-ā-Orotū (Ahuriri Estuary) and how they affect our community. Mana Ahuriri Trust, in collaboration with the Napier City Council, has been conducting regular monitoring of our waterways and kaimoana to ensure the health and safety of our environment and people.

Cultural monitoring is a process that combines traditional Māori knowledge with scientific methods to assess the health of our natural resources. It helps us understand how activities like stormwater discharge are impacting our waterways and the creatures that live in them.

Recent testing has revealed some concerning results that our community should be aware of:

1. Norovirus: All tested sites showed the presence of Norovirus GI in shellfish. While the levels varied, this indicates widespread contamination.

2. E. coli: All sampled sites exceeded safe levels of E. coli, with Saltwater Creek showing alarmingly high levels – 40 times the safety threshold.

Given these findings, we strongly advise the following:

– Avoid consuming kaimoana: Particularly cockles and other shellfish from Te Whanganui-ā-Orotū and surrounding areas until further notice.

– Exercise caution around waterways: Especially Saltwater Creek, the Old Tūtaekurī Riverbed, and the area near the Walkover Bridge (Thames/Tyne).

– Avoid water activities: Swimming, fishing, or any recreational activities involving direct contact with water in these areas should be avoided for now.

We’re continuing our monitoring efforts with the help of our rangatahi and local schools. Upcoming activities include:

– Fish surveys in August and September

– Stream health monitoring with Tamatea High School students

We’re working closely with the Napier City Council to address these issues. A comprehensive report will be prepared in the coming months, which will guide future actions to improve our waterways’ health.

We’ll keep you updated on any new findings or changes in recommendations. Your health and the health of our environment are our top priorities.

If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out us.

www.manaahuriri.org

Ngā mihi nui,

Mana Ahuriri Trust Taiao Team