Wairarapa Moana has been a taonga (treasure) for hundreds of years, acknowledged by local Māori as a place of tremendous cultural and spiritual value.
The once abundant waters teemed with life. Today, a fragile and unique ecology remains. Despite changes to the natural environment, it’s still a hot spot and migratory pathway for many important and threatened species.
Explore The moana
The area includes Lakes Wairarapa and Ōnoke, their neighbouring wetlands, the Wairarapa Lake Shore Scenic Reserve and Ōnoke Spit.
Protecting our treasure
The Wairarapa Moana Wetlands Project is a collaboration between local groups and organisations. The vision is Whakaora te repo, ka ora te taonga wai – Restoring our wetland treasure.