Whaingaroa Environment Centre started in 1997 as a group concerned about erosion and other environmental problems in the area around Whaingaroa (Raglan) Harbour. It was supported by Environment Waikato (the regional council) and Landcare Research and now has funding from the Ministry for the Environment. One of WEC’s main aims is to promote the Catchment Plan (call in for a copy), which was written by WEC after extensive consultation and looks to how individuals and groups might work together to improve the Whaingaroa environment over the next 25 years.

WEC is now an incorporated society, largely run by volunteers with the help of two part time co-ordinators. The white board at the Centre has a current list of volunteer work and we'd like you to join us – active members $2.

Committee members

WEC includes representatives from:

Whaingaroa Harbour Care Society Inc (Nursery/Streamside Restoration: planting, fencing; re-establish native plants; decrease soil erosion)
Whaanga Coast Ratepayers Association (Visitor amenities, Manu Bay improvement; pest control and enhancement of coastal environment)
Friends of Okete Stream (Stream protection)
Whakamaua Te Aio Trust (Holistic approach to life; traditional healing methods; organic gardening)
Whaingaroa Kite Whenua Trust (shellfish restoration)
Raglan Historic Society
Friends of Wainui Reserve (Native afforestation)
Schools (environmental education/monitoring)
Waikato Salt Water Sport Fishing Club (recreational fishing)
Concerned Residents Te Uku/Kauroa (Okete Stream protection)
Landcare groups
Eel fishers (Habitat protection - fishery enhancement)
Individual farmers and Lifestyle Block owners
Other Whaingaroa community members and Landcare groups (Deep Water Care Group - Te Akau South, Te Mata Stream care; Totara Grove; forestry; soil conservation; fertiliser/pesticide use)
and more!