16/04/2026
An update on the situation at Pukepuke Lagoon over the past few days.
Since Friday (April 12), coordinated efforts have been underway to understand the cause of the lagoon’s rapid drying. Kaimahi from Ngā hapū o Himatangi, Ngāti Raukawa ki te Tonga, alongside Rangitāne o Manawatū Settlement Trust and Ngā Wairiki Ngāti Apa, are working together on and off-site.
A range of assessments are currently in progress, including scanning, sampling, and cultural monitoring. These investigations are ongoing, and further time is required to analyse findings and determine appropriate next steps.
Over the weekend, whānau volunteers undertook significant efforts to relocate thousands of tuna to nearby water bodies. Recent rainfall associated with Cyclone Vaianu has also provided some initial replenishment, with small pockets of water beginning to return across parts of the lagoon and its inlets.
At this stage, no confirmed cause has been identified. Updates will be shared as more information becomes available, noting that conclusive findings may take time.
Ka nui te mihi to all kaimahi and volunteers across iwi, hapū, whānau, and partner organisations who have contributed their time and energy to this response.
Below is a video showing the current state of Pukepuke Lagoon.
