Freshwater, food, farms and forest
We’re committed to creating a rural environment that is both sustainable and productive.
At Whirika, we believe environmental stewardship is an opportunity to support resilient primary industries and local communities while also protecting and restoring our precious native ecosystems.
Our team of experts collaborate closely with mana whenua, land owners and managers, communities, councils, and groups. Together we develop enduring solutions that integrate environmental protection and enhancement seamlessly into operational frameworks. Whether it’s advising on sustainable management practices, developing catchment scale freshwater management plans, or finding innovative strategies for agroforestry – we’re dedicated to facilitating outcomes that are both practical and environmentally effective.
We work with our clients toward a rural New Zealand where resilient communities and primary production systems fit within a vibrant and healthy natural environment. Both for our generation and for generations to come.
Together, we can achieve a future where sustainability isn’t just a goal – it’s a way of life.
Solis Norton
Sally Dicey
Rhys Millar
Niki Bould
Case studies
Green infrastructure for community and climate resilience in lowland Hawke’s Bay
Whirika is helping Hawke's Bay Regional Council use climate resilience infrastructure funding to meet multiple needs on the Heretaunga Plains. Motivated to address climate and community resilience, the council was looking for ideas, as well as planning and management...
Finding effective ways to work with communities and stakeholders
Whirika was asked to provide a recommended framework for the Otago Regional Council and Kāi Tahu, as partners, to collaborate with communities and stakeholders, as part of their Integrated Catchment Management (ICM) programme. We needed to find an effective framework...
Managing a pest with a long history of bouncing back
The dry climate and open country of Central Otago and Queenstown Lakes District is a draw card for semi-rural landowners, and for rabbits. The pest is not a new problem - but it’s one with a long history of bouncing back. With rabbits affecting more landowners as...