The Ashley River/Rakahuri is a key feature of the North Canterbury landscape that poses a significant flood risk to the communities living on its floodplain. This project involved removing exotic vegetation that was choking a 21-kilometre section of the river between Ashley Gorge and the Ōkuku River confluence, and in the Ōkuku River.
Braided rivers are a precious and iconic part of the Canterbury environment. As a result of the introduction and invasion of weeds, predators, and human activities, braided rivers and unique ecosystems are under threat. The overgrown vegetation poses a flood and erosion risk, occupying the channel and potentially forcing flood waters towards farmland. Weed growth can also contribute to the loss of aquatic habitats and nesting areas for native birds.
Through this project in the Ashley River/Rakahuri, and across the region as part of the Braided River Revival/ Whakahaumanu Ngā Awa ā Pākihi work, Canterbury Regional Council (Environment Canterbury) is working to restore the natural braided character, which will in turn will enhance a range of natural biodiversity values, including natural braided river habitats.
Find out more about this project on the Environment Canterbury website.
