17 October 2013

Stream restoration project celebrates ten years

This month marks the ten year anniversary of Project Twin Streams, an Auckland Council and community led environmental restoration project that has seen local communities in West Auckland working together for healthy streams and strong communities.

Originally established to address flooding and water quality issues in Waitakere City, the project has engaged local residents by partnering with four local community organisations to bring back to life 56kms of stream banks, walk and cycle ways.

Auckland councillor, Penny Hulse, says that the real success of the project has been working together with communities and building sustainable partnerships.

“In addition to improved water quality in Waitakere streams and substantial reduction in weeds and waste, Project Twin Streams has achieved many wonderful outcomes for our local communities and won a number of regional, national and international awards along the way”, says Ms Hulse.

“There have been over 700,000 native trees and shrubs planted with almost half a million of those by volunteers. Through the walk and cycle ways communities have re-connected with each other and the stream; through education, community planting and arts projects, people now think more about the streams and see their value as a recreational and community resource”, she says.

Project Twin Streams is inviting the public to celebrate its achievements and come and see a decade of community involvement with an exhibition and kid’s workshops at Centre Court in Westfield WestCity, a long-time supporter of the project, between 17-27 October. The family-friendly and informative display will include many photos from over the 10 years, maps, artwork and games.

If you are interested in finding out more about the events please visit www.projecttwinstreams.com

To learn more about stream restoration and to get involved in planting day events please visit www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz

ENDS

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