Nature Day with New Lynn School at Manawa Wetlands and Rewarewa Creek
One hundred children from New Lynn Primary School walked along the road to discover the wonders of the Manawa Wetlands at one of our Nature Days last month. Once there, they learnt how to test the health of the water in the stream with Angus Campbell, from the Whau River Catchment Trust. They also learnt about pest plants, formerly known as… weeds!
Auckland Council manages over 250 species of weeds to protect the indigenous ecosystems and species of Tāmaki Makaurau. Teresa Davenport, an Auckland Park Ranger, shared her knowledge of weeds with over 100 children from New Lynn School. She explained why it’s important that weeds are managed so that we can protect New Zealand’s remarkable biodiversity.
Tony Miguel, Chair of the Te Whau Pathway Environment Trust, took the students on a tiki tour around the park and told them stories about its history, about the brickworks that existed there before the Manawa Wetlands came into existence.
Tony explained that stormwater collected from roads and concrete surfaces goes down drains and into rivers and harbours, carrying pollutants such as heavy metals, paints and oils.
“That’s why wetlands are so important! They have special plants that together act like a huge filter. They slow running water, trap mud and absorb pollutants and heavy metals. They are super clever at cleaning water.” Tony told the students.
Luckily, the sun held for most of the morning and we only had to finish a little early as the weather grew worse. The students thanked the project with a beautiful waiata and some thank you cards.
Photo Gallery
About this event
| Date | Monday 24th May 2024 |
| Location | Manawa Wetlands, New Lynn |
| Type | Environment, History |
| Who | Auckland Council Park Rangers, New Lynn School, Te Whau Pathway Environment Trust, Whau River Catchment Trust |
| Funders | Te Whau Pathway Project |
