The new wetland between the Pongakawa and Pukehina Canal, on the margins of the Waihī Estuary, will play a critical role in helping to treat agricultural drainage water from the adjacent dairy farms, to help improve the estuary’s health; improve indigenous wetland habitat and biodiversity. Coastal wetlands store significant amounts of carbon, known as blue carbon, making this project a valuable contribution to climate action.

Boffa Miskell landscape architects have developed and resolved the landscape vision for the overall wetland, working closely with the wider design team, including the engineers, the client and iwi collectives. 

Boffa Miskell also provided initial ecological advice, and engagement services, contributing and collaborating within a series of design workshops to refine the vision and ensure an authentic process.

Wetlands are important ecosystems that provide numerous environmental and cultural benefits. This new wetland site will allow research on critical climate drivers, such as carbon storage or blue carbon. It will also serve as a blueprint for restoring low-lying coastal areas around New Zealand.