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Regional | Environment

Community pitches in to restore Kārewarewa stream

Research suggests that in the last 10 - 15 years there has been a surge in stream restoration projects to help improve the water quality. So after years of degradation to the Kārewarewa stream in Bridge Pā, it has received a kick start in an attempt to turn that around.

Students from the local school are among those pitching in for the Kārewarewa stream in Bridge Pā makeover, the overall plan to plant hundreds of native trees around the area.

The plants are expected to help counter toxins that leach into the ground from farming practises, all part of the long term vision of the Hawkes Bay Regional Council to see the awa thrive once more.

The stream flows out into the Ngaruroro River and links to many of the marae in the Hastings wider region. It's a former food supply that is no longer abundant.

Hira Huata says her whānau used to gather Kēwai, Kokopū and Tuna from the river and while the overarching goal is a way off there is hope

While it is impossible to turn back the clock on the damage caused to the stream, the some 1600 trees to be planted there will help increase oxygen levels in the river.

Te Kāea reporter Aroha Treacher spoke with members of the community committed to the clean up and she will have all the details tonight on Te Kāea at 5:30 and 7:00pm with subtitles.