In September 2023, a draft strategy was shared with the community for feedback. It had two parts:
- part 1: Kaupapa - vision, values and objectives
- part 2: Actions - River Reaches – proposed actions for six parts of the river
We received 64 responses. Most supported the overall direction, especially the vision and values described in part 1. Some concerns, however, were raised about the specific actions in part 2.
See the consultation webpage and a summary of the responses
The programme’s Steering Group considered all the consultation feedback and in 2025 recommended:
- endorsing part 1 (with some changes) as the final Rakitata River revival strategy
- using part 2 as a starting point for an integrated work plan.
We shared a final version of the strategy from 12 August to 21 September 2025 and received feedback by email as well as in-person through a drop-in session, conversations with community members and meetings.
The Steering Group again considered all the feedback. In December 2025, the group decided to pause the strategy’s development and look at new ways to engage with communities and respond to evolving planning frameworks.
Thank you to everyone who has taken time to provide feedback and share valuable insights throughout this process.
Further updates will be shared through the Rakitata River revival community newsletter.