The lower reaches of Waitītiko (Meola Creek) are cared for by a collection of groups which are independently restoring patches of streamside.
Waitītiko runs through a culvert under the northwestern motorway. From there to the sea at Te Tokaroa (Meola Reef) it wends its way past Pasadena Intermediate, Western Springs College, Te Mahurehure Cultural Marae and the backs of some Pt Chevalier houses. Groups involved in restoration in the area include Pt Chevalier Air Scouts, Kahui Kairaranga o Tamaki weavers network and the following:
Blue Greens
When the Bluegreens volunteered their help to restore the 300m Meola Creek site between Gt North Road and the NW Motorway in 2011 we were confronted with a weed infested stream bank. After two years of regular working bees and a dedicated team of volunteers we have removed over 2 tons of rubbish (it was and old tip site) and exotic weeds. We then planted over 3000 grasses and trees, set rat bait stations and possum traps to control pests. The Bluegreens are committed to restoring our section of an iconic Auckland waterway for future generations to enjoy.
Pasadena Intermediate
For several years, Pasadena Intermediate staff and students have been planting the floodplain where a small tributary meets Waitītiko. It is right by the school and has a popular public walkway all the way around it. The project involves children from Pt Chevalier School, who assist with planting the site with sedges, shrubs and trees. The day is educational as well as very physical, with students learning about flora and fauna diversity, erosion control and inanga spawning sites.
Pt Chevalier School
Primary students from Pt Chevalier School have been planting at Te Mahurehure Marae for a few years now. They also work with Pasadena Intermediate on the Pasadena Reserve restoration project.
Rasheed Memorial Trust
The Rasheed Memorial Trust group no longer work along the creek, but have a strong legacy of clearing rubbish and planting the banks and floodplain of the Waitītiko directly opposite the zoo entry from the Motions Reserve bridge to Gt North Rd. This area is now almost completely replanted.
STEPS
St Lukes Environmental Protection Society (STEPS) is the major advocate for Waitītiko / Meola Creek. As well as campaigning for the restitution of a more natural creek, and caring for the Roy Clements Treeway, STEPS undertakes weeding and planting the banks of the lower creek at the back of MOTAT.
Western Springs College
Students from Ngā Puna O Waiōrea are planting the stream floodplains and banks on the school boundary. They collect rubbish, weed and plant native species including sedges, shrubs and trees.
