Next week, WAI Wānaka in partnership with Kāi Tahu, the University of Otago and Otago Regional Council, will host Alpine Lakes Forum 2025 in Wānaka. This two-day event brings together mana whenua, researchers, policy-makers, industry representatives and community leaders to explore how collaboration can preserve and protect Aotearoa’s deep alpine lakes for generations to come.

The full programme has just been released, featuring more than 25 expert speakers. Day One - Freshwater Futures focuses on regional science, monitoring insights and community engagement. Opening reflections will be shared by Kāi Tahu’s Edward Ellison and WAI Wānaka Chair John Rodwell, followed by research updates from leading scientists Associate Professor Marc Schallenberg, Dr David Plew, Aidin Jabbari and Dr Phil Novis. Attendees will also get an insight into Kāi Tahu’s freshwater claim from Gabrielle Huria, hear from the Otago Regional Council on the state of deepwater lakes, an address from Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) Mayor John Glover with a session on QLDC’s Freshwater Strategy, including the Blue Green Network Plan and join a collaborative panel with multi-agency x community approach.

Day Two – Researchers' Perspectives: Provocations & Possibilities shifts to academic research and deeper scientific inquiry. Highlights include a keynote by Emeritus Professor Dame Carolyn Burns, paradigm-challenging discussions led by Professor David Hamilton, and a showcase of cutting-edge research from the University of Otago. The forum concludes with a collaborative session ‘Weaving Knowledge Systems Together,’ closing reflections by Lakes Chair in Freshwater Sciences Professor Ross Thompson, and a student poster showcase celebrating the next generation of freshwater researchers.

Why is the Alpine Lakes Forum important?

Otago’s alpine lakes are among the most pristine freshwater systems in the world, but their health cannot be taken for granted. These ecosystems face interconnected pressures – from land-use change and nutrient inputs to climate variability and biodiversity decline.

The forum will provide a space where science meets indigenous and local knowledge, enabling participants to share insights, discuss valuing nature in decision-making and explore how communities can contribute to evidence-based freshwater management.

“Bridging the gap between research and action is key to protecting Aotearoa’s freshwater,” says Cat Dillon, WAI Wānaka CEO. “Real change happens when we work together – turning knowledge into action for healthy waterways.”

Whether you are a researcher, an individual passionate about protecting alpine lakes, or a policy-maker shaping freshwater regulation, the Alpine Lakes Forum offers an opportunity to connect, learn and contribute to a shared vision for the future.

Join us in shaping the future of these alpine lakes.

For more information and to register, visit https://waiwanaka.my.canva.site/alpine-lakes forum-2025/

Event Details:

Day 1: Freshwater Futures

Wednesday 26 November, 12:30-6:30pm | Lake Wānaka Centre | Entry by Koha Focus: Regional science, monitoring insights, and community engagement Day 2: Researchers’ Perspectives – Provocations & Possibilities

Thursday 27 November, 12:00pm-7:00pm | Edgewater Hotel, Wānaka | Entry $15

Focus: Academic research, ecosystem values, and deeper scientific inquiry

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