Can Southland fuel its own transition away from coal?

by Whirika | Sep 1, 2022

What is the potential for using wood biomass energy from local forestry to fuel the big energy users in the region? In our report for the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA), we evaluated the availability of wood biomass for bioenergy use in Southland,...

Finding effective ways to work with communities and stakeholders

by Whirika | Aug 17, 2022

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...

Turning the idea of zero carbon into a reality

by Whirika | Aug 17, 2022

Whirika helps small and large businesses understand their energy use and carbon emissions so that they can make informed decisions about their business. In 2020, we developed a zero carbon strategy for Prime Range Meats in Invercargill. First, we developed a carbon...

Managing a pest with a long history of bouncing back

by Whirika | Aug 16, 2022

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...

Predator free planning for Onetahua Farewell Spit

by Whirika | Jul 31, 2022

We worked with Tasman Environmental Trust to plan a predator control programme for Onetahua Farewell Spit. Onetahua Farewell Spit is a Wetland of International Importance and a popular holiday stopover for more than 20,000 migratory birds each year. The importance of...