NZ Landcare Trust, Media Release - for immediate release

24-07-14

Dame Devoy Launches Bi-lingual Guide.

Winter sunshine greeted the launch of NZ Landcare Trust's newest publication 'Waikato River Restoration: A Bi-lingual Guide,' in Hamilton today. Race Relations Commissioner Dame Susan Devoy was the guest of honour, officially launching the guide in front of an audience of nearly 50 invited guests.

The event coincided with Maori language week. Dame Devoy marked the occasion by beginning her speech in Te Reo Maori. The Commissioner acknowledged the work that went into creating the guide and applauded NZ Landcare Trust and river iwi, for their efforts. She went on to put the publication into a broader context, referencing the work of the Human Rights Commission in New Zealand.

Dr Nick Edgar NZ Landcare Trust CEO was the first speaker, giving a personal account of growing up on the banks of the Waikato River and his personal connection to it, regarding the River as a taonga that we all have a responsibility to protect and restore. Nick highlighted the variety of case studies covered in the guide, from research led projects to farmer led, business led and community led. He reinforced the positive message contained in the Guide, where the majority of the material deals with solutions rather than the problems. Dr Edgar wrapped up by thanking those involved in helping deliver the project plus the Waikato River Authority for funding the work.

Co-chair of the Waikato River Authority (WRA) Hon John Luxton talked about the financial support the WRA are offering to restoration projects, including the new bi-lingual guide and three further projects with NZ Landcare Trust.

Waikato-Tainui Chairman Rahui Papa highlighted the importance of both community and collaboration. How looking ahead, Waikato-Tainui and other River iwi will all play an increasing role, working alongside others to deliver improvements.

More information about 'Waikato River Restoration: A Bi-lingual Guide' including a downloadable (pdf) version can be found on the NZ Landcare Trust website:

www.landcare.org.nz/BilingualGuide

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