New strategy sets course for a healthier Manukau Harbour

A major new strategy has been adopted to guide the long-term restoration and protection of the Manukau Harbour.

Auckland Council’s Policy, Planning and Development Committee has unanimously adopted Revitalise Manukau Harbour: Auckland Council’s strategy for a thriving Manukau Harbour, setting a coordinated direction for improving the environmental health of one of Aotearoa New Zealand’s largest and most significant harbours.

The strategy supports the long-term vision that “The Manukau Harbour is healthy and thriving. Its mauri is restored, and life is abundant. Its people are well.”

It establishes five long-term outcomes for the harbour, focused on improving water quality, harbour biodiversity and climate resilience; enabling mana whenua to exercise kaitiakitanga; and supporting people to connect with and care for the harbour.

Eight objectives will guide Auckland Council’s contribution, addressing key pressures including sediment and nutrient inputs, waste and microplastics, habitat and species loss, marine pests and pathogens, and the impacts of climate change.

The strategy recognises that restoring the Manukau Harbour requires a whole-of-catchment approach and cannot be achieved by Auckland Council alone. Mana whenua, communities, businesses, landowners, government agencies and environmental organisations all have an important role in the harbour’s future.

The Manukau Harbour Forum welcomes this significant step towards greater coordination, investment and collective action for the harbour.

Watch more about the strategy and its adoption: