SORT & MWWL Host a Harakeke Tidy-Up
On March 17th 2024, a community-driven effort took place to honour a cherished tradition and contribute to the restoration of Piriharakeke (the Manawatū River Loop at Foxton).
Organised by the Save Our River Trust (SORT) in collaboration with the Māori Women's Welfare League (MWWL), the event focused on tidying up the harakeke along Pirihakeke, drawing on the rich history and matauranga (knowledge) of tending to and harvesting harakeke in Te Awahou (Foxton).
Volunteers at the Harakeke Working Bee 17th March 2023
With an excellent turnout, volunteers from the community, led by MWWL alongside SORT, gathered to tend to the harakeke. It was heartwarming to see tamariki joining in the effort, eager to learn and contribute to the preservation of this taonga. The harakeke, once a vital resource for the local economy, was now being tended to with care and respect by the community.
During the working bee, experts guided volunteers to carefully prune back harakeke, following traditional practices that ensure the health of the plant and promote airflow to reduce the risk of disease.
All harvested flax was donated back to the Foxton Flax Stripper Museum, symbolising the continuity of tradition and the importance of preserving cultural. An upcoming event will allow the community to witness the stripping of flax on the old machinery, further connecting the history and legacy.
The success of the working bee highlights the communities commitment to the restoration and conservation of the River Loop at Foxton. Through collaborative efforts like this, SORT aims to develop the river for public recreational use, fostering a deeper connection between the community and their natural environment.
A special thanks are extended to Jason Davy and the team at New World Foxton for their generous sponsorship, providing kai to keep volunteers nourished throughout the day. Their support was instrumental in making the event a success for all those in attendance.
New World Foxton generously donated kai to keep volunteers fuelled for the day
A big thank you to all the members of the community that came out to support the kaupapa too. One volunteer said, “We all loved the time helping with the harakeke. That space and vibe is so good for the soul.”
As SORT looks ahead, there are plans for more community-led events in the future. Those interested in joining upcoming initiatives are encouraged to reach out via DM or email admin@sort.nz.