A locally led voice for positive change
The Karamu River Catchment Collective provides a locally led platform for improving land‑management practices, water quality and biodiversity across the Heretaunga Plains. Through practical projects and science-based research, KRCC offers its members opportunities to boost on‑farm productivity, future proof their rural business, and deliver long‑term environmental gains for their communities.
KRCC provides a forum for farmers, orchardists, wine growers - anyone with a stake in the long-term sustainability of our catchment - to share knowledge, exchange ideas and work together on practical initiatives. In addition, membership offers you a say in how available funding is spent in your sub-catchment, potentially funding on-the-ground projects in your area, and on your farm.
A say in what is
important to you.
Membership is made up of 14 sub‑catchment groups. Each group represent the people who work with the land in that region, and who understand its unique challenges and opportunities.
Membership provide access to our library of support resources, shared expertise, best practice training, and sub-catchment targeted funding opportunities.
By working with others who have similar concerns, you can make improvements to your own business, and contribute to real, positive change for your community.
The funding to make
it happen
The collective receives direct central government investment as part of the 2025 Budget’s on‑farm support programme. Associate Agriculture Minister Andrew Hoggard announced a grant earmarked specifically for the Karamu River Catchment Collective. This funding is intended for projects such as:
• Erosion control
• Biodiversity enhancement and protection
• On farm knowledge sharing
• Wetland and riparian planting projects
• Nutrient and sediment loss mitigation
Collective Action
A new generation of volunteers
Not all KRCC members work on the land. Some are part of an amazing group of volunteers who use their time to contribute to environmental improvements for their community.
Among them is 14-year-old Theo Smith, the youngest active trapper in the KRCC. A boarder at Lindisfarne College during the week, Theo returns home on weekends to continue his conservation work as part of his Duke of Edinburgh Award. Theo is making great progress towards his badge, and a real difference for predator control in the catchement.
“I've got quite good at it over the years, ” he says. “It’s good to know that every predator I catch gives native birds a better chance. And I’ve learned heaps… and about how to convince the neighbours to get onboard. ”
Young people like Theo remind us that it really does take a community to care for a catchment. The Karamu was once filled with native birdsong. Today Theo and others are using their own voices and actions to help bring back the songs of tūī, korimako, and pīwakawaka, giving us hope for better, more sustainable future.
Follow Theo’s project at https://trap.nz/project/32362835/info
