Freshwater conservation group Tiaki Maniototo (TM) hopes the new Spec Creek Galaxiid Sanctuary will become a focal point for raising awareness around freshwater conservation and native fish.

TM communications officer Bill Morris said the rain on opening day resulted in people crowding into the woolshed for speeches, which was fitting as it was the farmers who got the initiative started.

“Lots of people attended, despite the rain. It was testament to the resilience of the community in Maniototo.”

Bill said November and December were the best time to visit the sanctuary as it was easy to see juveniles schooling in the shallows. 

“There are hundreds of them, right there . . . one visitor has even already uploaded a video of the galaxiids to google maps, which is pretty cool.” 

Visitors got up close to the fish on opening day, November 17. PHOTO: Supplied 

He said in the future school groups would be visiting and Spec Creek could be an example for other freshwater streams to assist with education and awareness. 

Watch a Tiaki Maniototo five minute video about Spec Creek here.

TM is in the middle of a very busy spring and summer planting season and has reached a milestone of 50,000 plants in the ground.

“Credit is due to the Habitat Restoration Aotearoa team, it’s their hard work and efficiencies to get this done.”

Bill said TM was well ahead of schedule and looking like they would exceed their goal of 90,000 plants. The project has two more years to run. 

“We’re going to smash that [goal] before the end of the project.”  

A site near Ranfurly that has been planted with natives this spring. PHOTO: Supplied 

A nursery has been established at Patearoa and is being used to store plants, and acclimate them to the harsh environment prior to planting.

Bill said there were two nursery assistant roles going, to learn more contact: [email protected]