Waiata, waka and eel traps will all be part of an interactive day on the Kaituna River this weekend.
Te Maru O Kaituna River Authority invites members of the public to celebrate with them The Kaituna River Document.
The Kaituna River Document was signed on June 22 marking a milestone for Te Maru O Kaituna River Authority who is now working on an action plan for the future management of the Kaituna River.
Te Maru O Kaituna River Authority Chairman Dean Flavell said that this Sunday marks the start of new beginnings for the awa (river) and he looks forward to working with locals, iwi, landowners and local authorities to ensure a sustainable future for the Kaituna River.
"The authority has prepared the document, Kaituna, he taonga tuku iho – a treasure handed down, as a statement of partnership and co-governance to deliver our vision for the river. The document builds on the community's energy and commitments for caring for their awa," he said.
The Kaituna River Document outlines several objectives for the Kaituna River and its tributaries. It sets expectation the water quality and mauri of the water in the awa will be restored to a healthy state. One of the ways that the environmental wellbeing of the Kaituna River will be enhanced is through improved land management practices.
Sunday’s celebrations kick off at 10 am at Waitangi Reserve, Te Puke with an address from Authority Chairman Dean Flavell. The event will run through to 2 pm.
Kapa haka, hinaki demonstrations (eel/tuna fishing), bug investigations and waka tangata travelling down the awa, as well as special guests local reggae duo Native Nations performing, will all be a part of the celebrations.
Stallholders include Department of Conservation, Envirohub, Fish & Game, Maketū Ongatoro Wetlands, Bay of Plenty Regional Council and Te Maru o Kaituna, with water support activities supplied by the Maketū Coast Guard, Te Waiariki Purea Trust, Te Arawa Waka Trust and Rotorua Rafting.
A local kapa haka group will take the stage at 1 pm and Native Nations will perform before and after them. The Under 23-year-old NZ Rafting Team will be providing a kai fundraiser.
Public parking will be available at Te Matai School and the event will be moved to Ngāti Moko Marae if it rains.