Seeing through the eyes of a fish: a socio-ecological assessment of the Whau River

Abstract

This thesis explores the concept of urban river restoration and management in Auckland, with particular focus on the Whau River Catchment. While a cultural focus has been emphasised in urban restoration efforts, expressed in terms of concerns for human benefits, this thesis seeks to address concerns for the needs of ‘more than human’ species. Rather than addressing this concern from within a scientific lens, the thesis explores social perspectives upon restoration in this urban catchment, highlighting the place and role of the ‘more than human’ as part of restoration efforts. Urbanisation and continual development of the area has had a negative effect on the environment. Land use changes have brought about habitat destruction, impacting on the wellbeing of freshwater species. Runoff from the urban landscape alters flow patterns and discharges polluted waters into waterways, degrading many parts of urban river systems. This research highlights the practices and policies of various groups relating to restoration and management of the Whau Catchment. The river encompasses a mix of small streams, a larger river channel and a dominant estuary leading into the Waitemata Harbour. Outcomes of semi structured interviews conducted with a range of people involved in the restoration of the Whau are reported. Personnel interviewed include professional, technical and informal groups who have an interest and influence upon improvements of the waterways within the Whau catchment. This qualitative approach examined the knowledge and experiences by people to understand the underlying perspectives surrounding river restoration and management in an effort to assess the potential future trajectories of these landscapes. Evidence supports new and developing practices in urban stream restoration, wherein more socially-framed approaches to low impact design (soft-engineering practices) are making positive moves towards restoration. Priorities, constraints and the effectiveness of management in the Whau River are explored through the perspectives of people. Although great work has been done and local benefits and successes are evident, it is contended that a more holistic view, wherein all interested parties are involved in decision-making processes, encompass consideration for ‘more than human’ perspectives. This will see continued regeneration of the area where the ecosystems themselves are a central focus of restoration efforts. Key words: urban river restoration, urban river management, effects of restoration practices, urban river perspectives, river futures.