Waka Ama Provides Platform for Major Elver Release
Seeing baby tuna up close at the Waikato River Authority tent during the Waka Ama Sprint Nationals carried through to Monday afternoon, when 76,000 elvers were released by the Waikato and Waipā River Iwi Tuna Collective.
The release drew a large crowd, including many of the same tamariki who had visited the WRA tent earlier in the day. They gathered at the boat ramp to watch the tiny travellers begin the next stage of their journey upstream.
“The river iwi taiao leaders came together three years ago to work for the betterment of tuna, with our top priority being the trap-and-transfer programme at Karāpiro,” says Project Lead Erina Watene. “Releasing elvers during Waka Ama Nats helps connect whānau who are paddling on the awa. They’re not just thinking about the river – they’re becoming aware of what lives in it and feeling inspired to be kaitiaki.”
Since 2022, the Collective has been delivering its strategy He Tuna Ora, He Wai Ora, He Tangata Ora (Thriving Tuna, Healthy River, Thriving People), focusing on five priority areas: elver trap and transfer, downstream migrant protection, information sharing, habitat restoration, and building wider relationships.
Waikato River Authority Chief Executive Antoine Coffin says the elver release, along with having baby tuna at the WRA tent, was a valuable opportunity to support this important mahi.
“Visitors to our tent were able to deepen their understanding of elvers and why the Collective plays a crucial role in helping them safely navigate the Karāpiro Dam to complete their journey up the river and beyond.”
