STEPS (St Lukes Environmental Protection Society) is an Auckland community group, protecting and restoring Waitītiko-Meola Creek; the waterway with the largest catchment on the Auckland isthmus. Waititiko-Meola Creek is a great resource for Auckland, but is also a waterway facing challenges including an encroaching urban environment, sewage overflows, and sections lost to culverts. Its purpose is to protect and enhance the environment and amenities along Meola Creek's catchment area. Increased commercial and residential pressure in St Lukes, Sandringham, Point Chevalier and Mt Albert has had some unfortunate side effects. For example, Auckland Council signs warn of the polluted state of Waititiko - Meola Creek due to frequent overflows from sewers and stormwater drains. Waititiko - Meola Creek originates from Mt Albert-Owairaka and runs through Kerr Taylor Reserve and the Roy Clements Treeway. A tributary arises in the nearby Mount Albert Grammar School Farm, and together these three green spaces represent a ‘breathing space’ in the busy St Lukes district. Waititiko has the largest catchment on the Auckland isthmus, including the suburbs of Mt Albert, Mt Eden, Balmoral, Sandringham and Point Chevalier. It runs through Chamberlain Park and reaches Waitemata Harbour just west of Meola Reef-Te Tokaroa, the longest lava flow in Auckland. Te Tokaroa originates at Mt St John volcano and extends over 10 km, nearly crossing Waitemata Harbour to within 600m of Kauri Point on the North Shore.
