Kooura sighting in Puhinui stream a strong signal for urban regeneration

Kooura (freshwater crayfish) have been found at Wai-Akatea Raataa Vine Stream Reserve, a section of the Puhinui stream. The early return of the species signals the success of the regeneration, bringing together ecological enhancement and urban renewal. Under Auckland Council’s Transform Manukau programme, the revival of native species at Wai-Akatea / Raataa Vine Stream Reserve is proof that with the right approach, nature can thrive in urban environments. 

Urban regeneration in action

Only a year ago, the awa showed little sign of life. Today, kooura, kaakahi (freshwater mussels), and iinanga (whitebait species) have started to return. For those involved in the project, this is more than an ecological win - it’s a sign that regeneration works.

The contractors on site that made the discovery had an immediate sense of awe. Oliver Ferrick, Director at Glasgow Contractors, recalls the moment kooura were found:

“Finding kooura in Te Aka Raataa was a special moment for our team. We’re used to sharing our sites with native wildlife, but here, we’re seeing these taonga return as we create new habitats.

Just weeks after removing the concrete channel, kaakahi came back for the first time in over 50 years, and now an adult kooura has appeared. It’s powerful evidence that our work is making a real difference, not just for the environment, but for the community and future generations.”
Te Ākitai Waiohua chairperson Karen Wilson says the discovery carries significance for Mana Whenua.

“Sighting taonga species such as kooura, kaakahi and iinanga at Te Puhinui says everything for Te Aakitai Waiohua. It demonstrates that no matter how small the steps, each step taken contributes to restoring the mauri of the awa.
 
This is heartening to see and demonstrates that the project is achieving meaningful results for our iwi, the local neighbourhood and communities and the dedicated service providers and staff of Auckland Council. It is a kaupapa that shows genuine promise and deserves continued support into the future.”

Restoring the stream and connecting communities

Te Aka Raataa is the first awa project of Te Whakaoranga o te Puhinui regeneration programme, aiming to reawaken the mauri (life force) of the Puhinui stream and create a greenway linking Manukau town centre to the Auckland Botanic Gardens. 

The project’s name, gifted by local iwi Ngaati Tamaoho, Ngaati Te Ata Waiohua, and Te Ākitai Waiohua, references the white raataa vine once prominent in the area, weaving cultural heritage into the heart of the project.

Since early 2025, what was once a concrete-lined channel is being transformed into a living waterway. The goals are clear: improve water quality, support biodiversity and reconnect people with nature through new paths, cycleways and boardwalks.

Regeneration in action

The transformation didn’t happen by chance; it has been thoughtfully designed to support the heath of the awa. Removing the concrete channel was the first step, allowing the stream to meander naturally. ecological features - rock formations, woody debris, and gravels - to create varied habitats. Wetlands were added to attract birdlife, while staged planting provided immediate cover and food sources for insects and birds.

Sediment control and strict prevention of contaminant discharges kept the awa healthy throughout construction. These efforts, combined with planting native plants along the stream edges helped created the conditions kooura need: shaded pools, slow-flowing water, and shelter from predators.