Innovative Kelp Restoration Trial Takes Root at Te Ara Tukutuku

At the end of July 2026, ropes and floats were installed along the wharf at the northern tip of Wynyard Point.

Together with green gravel (small rocks seeded with microscopic kelp) the ropes are part of a trial designed to test the best conditions can be for this juvenile kelp to grow and flourish in Te Waitematā Harbour.

When speaking about the vision for Te Ara Tukutuku, the Mana Whenua Partners said:

“At the foot of Tāmaki Makaurau, the city touches the realm of Tangaroa. Once an abundant place for gathering food, the bays were filled in, and the land was closed off and developed for industry. The mauri of Te Waitematā and the surrounding landscape was weakened. Now, the vision is to enhance the mauri of the moana, the whenua and tangata.”

Regenerative practice is at the heart of Te Ara Tukutuku. Mauri tu, mauri ora epitomises the holistic health and wellbeing for these ecosystems to heal and regenerate together.

The hatchery trials delivered encouraging results, showing that kelp can successfully grow on green gravel. They also identified important insights into the conditions needed to maximise growth and survival. 

With the hatchery phase complete, the next stage is now underway, with the seaweed being returned to the harbour to continue growing in its natural environment.

Fiona Knox, Priority Location Director for the Auckland Urban Design Office at Auckland Council says the marine trials are part of the wider work programme being undertaken as part of the staged regeneration of Wynyard Quarter into a sustainable, accessible and vibrant place for Aucklanders and visitors.

“The marine trials are one component of a broader restoration effort underway through Te Ara Tukutuku, which brings together mātauranga Māori, modern science and community action to return the mauri to Te Waitematā.

“We’re building on our collective knowledge and experience  to find the best methods for improving water quality and restoring the marine habitat around Wynyard Point. This includes implanting native seaweed species and mussels in different arrangements and depths to monitor their impact on water quality and using 3D printed reefs as a habitat for sea life above and below the water.

“On land, work is underway to prevent contamination from the reclaimed material leaching into the harbour, by installing a Low Permeability Barrier along the western edge of Wynyard Point and capping the site with clay.

“This work is essential, not just to ensure the area is fit for its future use as a mixed-use site, but as part of our responsibilities as the landowner, and acting on behalf of Aucklanders. It’s really exciting that we have reached the stage where can turn these long-held plans into visible and impactful action."

Rebecca Barclay-Cameron, Ventures Director at EnviroStrat, says the team knows restoring kelp forests will require practical solutions that can be used by communities, iwi and restoration groups across the country.