Kiripara Stream

Kiripara Stream was a major contributor to flooding during Cyclone Gabrielle. Plant overgrowth on its banks and bed obstructed water flow and stormwater could not escape the drainage channel as river levels rose, causing flooding and damaging private property. 

Post-cyclone, Council addressed the effects of deferred maintenance on this stream. We partnered with Mana whenua and the Whatumā Management Group to determine a holistic solution and restoration plan for the stream. In February/March 2024, crews excavated the stream bed and removed overgrown trees from its embankments and bed - increasing the stream's capacity and performance and paving the way for restoration work. Taiao Ora carried out cultural impact monitoring throughout the work, and HBRC helped to clear gravel from the river outlet.

The collaborative effort:

• reduced the identified flood risk,
• enhanced the ecology of the area,
• strengthened relationships between Council and Mana whenua,
• assisted in sustainable development, and
• provided a blueprint for subsequent maintenance works.