The Achievements of SORT

For over two decades, SORT has been at the forefront of the restoration efforts of Piriharakeke, the Manawatū River Loop at Foxton, driven by our dedicated team of volunteers. Our mission goes beyond mere restoration; it's about reinvigorating Piriharakeke and strengthening the bond between our community and the awa too.

With a strategic and community-focused approach, we prioritise the needs of our stakeholders and mana whenua, navigating challenges with careful consideration. Each project, whether it's beautifying the landscape or enhancing amenities, contributes strategically toward our goal of reopening the river loop while honouring the mauri of our awa.

As we reflect on our achievements, we acknowledged that they are the result of the collective efforts of countless volunteers and organisations. From the Foxton Wildlife Trust to Team Kuaka and birdwatchers, the RAMSAR site of significance, the Manawatu Estuary Management Team, Bird and Wildlife, and the Department of Conservation (DoC), each has played a crucial role in advancing the initiatives of Save Our River Trust. Additionally, the advocacy and support from the Te Awahou Foxton Community Board have been instrumental in driving forward our mission.

  • SORT was established in 2004 in response to the declining state of Piriharakeke (the Manawatū River Loop at Foxton) , aiming to restore its mauri and the connection between the community and the awa. Early initiatives included community plantings and clean-ups signaling the beginning of community-led efforts for restoration.

  • To improve water flow and ecosystem health, maintenance work began in 2006 to clear and widen the channel at the upper end of the loop, enhancing the river's natural habitat and ecological balance.

  • SORT solidified its partnership with Horowhenua District Council, laying the groundwork for collaborative planning and implementation efforts to restore and enhance the health and accessibility of Piriharakeke.

  • SORT played a pivotal role in fostering community engagement and cultural appreciation along Piriharakeke, by contributing to the establishment of the trust for Te Awahou Nieuwe Stroom. This initiative aimed to unite local and visitor participation to support the loop's restoration, honoring its cultural significance.

  • The establishment of a joint working group marked the beginning of efforts to explore strategies for reopening Piriharakeke. Through a comprehensive feasibility report, the project's viability was confirmed, providing guidance for subsequent planning and restoration efforts.

  • Immersive displays convey the cultural richness of Ngāti Raukawa ki te Tonga, the historical importance of Piriharakeke, and SORT’s efforts in community-led restoration. This collaborative endeavor, involving SORT, local iwi, the Dutch Community, and HDC allow visitors to gain insight into the history of Piriharakeke while being inspired to explore and engage with the surrounding area.

  • In collaboration with HDC and local iwi, SORT secured a substantial Provincial Growth Fund grant of $3.86million, enabling critical restoration projects to proceed. This funding supported silt removal, bank reconstruction, and park rejuvenation, reaffirming SORT's commitment to environmental restoration and community well-being.

  • A dawn ceremony marked the opening of the River Loop Reserve. The event, attended by community members and officials, celebrated ongoing efforts to restore the loop's ecological balance and enhance community spaces, fostering a sense of unity and commitment to the wellbeing of Piriharakeke.

  • SORT facilitated a workshop focused on consenting and scoping for the opening of Piriharakeke, advancing research initiatives essential for infrastructure. Five pressure transducers were installed to collect crucial water level data, providing valuable insights for future restoration efforts.

  • SORT launched a strategic 5-year digital plan, including website development and media platforms. These tools amplify community engagement and participation while elevating awareness of Piriharakeke's historical significance and SORT's restoration efforts. Additionally, further beautification projects, notably the Piriharakeke walkway restoration continued to be carried out by the community.

  • A community-led workshop gathered feedback on the development of the river verge between the dolphin and kings canal, fostering collective vision and aspirations for the loop's enhancement. Beautification efforts, including harakeke tidying and pathway clearing, continued to be undertaken to create a welcoming and inclusive space for residents and visitors alike.