The Foxton River Loop Story

The Manawatū River Loop at Foxton, known as Piriharakeke, faced significant environmental degradation due to mismanaged earthworks by the New Zealand Public Works Department in 1943. The construction of a weir to control flooding led to the creation of the Whirokino Cut, altering the natural course of the Manawatū River. This redirection had severe consequences, impacting the cultural, social, economic, and environmental well-being of Te Awahou (Foxton).

The river loop, once a thriving and vital part of the community, became stagnant and disconnected from the main river flow. Sedimentation, invasive weed growth, and water quality issues emerged, affecting the health of the ecosystem. Despite promises by the government to address the environmental damage, no effective actions were taken.

Save Our River Trust (SORT), a community-led organisation, emerged to tackle these issues. SORT aims to restore the mauri of Piriharakeke and the community, and address the cultural and ecological significance. With a vision grounded in possibility, SORT actively engages volunteers, stakeholders, and the wider community to bring about positive change and unlock the potential of Te Awahou (Foxton).