Lake Rotoma Lake Rotoehu Community Association

09/07/2026

Latest lake Levels. So the levels came up more than this but have receded a little over the last few days

17/05/2026

12/05/2026

ROTOMA-ROTOEHU COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION
Together We Make It Happen
May – June 2026

From the Chair

Kia ora everyone,
Cyclone Vaianu certainly tested Rotorua Lakes Council’s civil defence systems here at Lake Rotoma. We congratulate Julie Riggir (lead for the Team) and Lake Rotoehu community for its own Civil Defence management and response plan that is already in place. Well done to their whole Team.
CIVIL DEFENCE MANAGEMENNT PLAN AT LAKE ROTOMA
At our April meeting, the RRCA committee discussed what we could do to support residents during emergencies, such as slips, road closures, trees down and property damage etc There was little or no information about how Rotorua Lakes Council could assist the Rotoma community during emergencies. People who used to be part of Council’s CIVIL DEFENCE COMMS team for Rotoma had stood down some time ago, leaving us without a designated co-ordinator. With the impending Cyclone Vaianu rolling in, Committee Member Abbie Dods noted while Lake Rotoehu had a Civil Defence Plan in place, nothing existed for Rotoma. Abbie contacted Rotorua Lakes Council about who our CD contact might be. Further, Abbie noticed a void so has pushed for a meeting with RLC CD team. That meeting is scheduled for Friday 15th May. Committee members Sandra Haines and Abbie Dods will represent us in that space and a representative from both the Fire Service and Hall Committee will also attend.
In the immediate future, we will need some community representatives as well so keep an eye on our local FB page and further email updates.

In the meantime, should you need help during emergencies, please call 111.
Because of YOU, and your support, our two communities continue to grow stronger.
RECENTLY WE ACHIEVED:
• Formal ratification of your RRCA Constitution (let us know if you would like a copy)
• Dates set for this year’s Tiger Trout Fishing Competition, being 26th and 27th of September.
• Confirmed that TALT and BOP Regional Council employ Bio Security Officers to check ramps and certify boats at both our lakes, in the push to prevent the introduction of golden clam. They work at 57 boat ramps in our Lakes area on a rotating roster system. Abbie Dods, one of our Committee members, is a Bio Security Officer of this team.
• Saw the completion of the upgraded children’s playground at the bottom of Oxford Road, SH 30. The “soft landing” materials are new, and the concrete footpaths making for easier and safer navigation for park users.




INTRODUCING OUR NEW TREASURER:
At our April meeting, we officially welcomed Rachel Strang as our new Treasurer. Great to have you on board, Rachael.

A SPECIAL THANKS GOES OUT TO PAM LANG FOR HER SERVICE AS TREASURER THESE PAST SOME 6 YEARS. Awesome work Pam. Lovely to still have you as a committee member with all the skills and experience you bring.
OUR W**D BUSTERS – there’s no stopping them now!
Not content with tackling w**ds around the jetty at Lake Rotoehu, these hardy wahine are planning an assault on the downed trees that are littering the shallows at Matahi Spit. This dead wood is in the lake shallows to the left of the boat ramp. It poses a threat to swimmers, kayakers paddle boarders and boaties alike. Therefore, we are calling all lumberjacks and lumberjills, (Please see below)
WHAT ARE YOU DOING ON THE 16th of May? We’re meeting at Matahi Spit Beach by the new toilet block at 10am. The plan is to get rid of all those ugly and dangerous dead branches sitting on the water’s edge to the left of the boat ramp/jetty, and to make a dent on the invasive broom and blackberry bushes. Much of the dead wood is already on the shoreline.
BRING YOUR GLOVES, A HAT, WARM JACKET AND A DRINK. Wear sturdy shoes. Bring loppers, secateurs, hand saws even a chain saw to help get this job done. “Let’s make Matahi safe again” 😊
Take Note - PEST W**DS
Conservation Week has been and gone but was a reminder to be on the alert for invasive w**ds that choke native plants. Take note of what is in your garden and on reserves. Privet is best pulled out as young saplings. Burning them is best, not composting. Keep an eye out for the deadly and invasive MOTH PLANT. It looks like a small choko and sheds fluffy white seed heads. We haven’t noticed it in Rotoma or Rotoehu yet, but prevention is better than playing catch-up. Kawerau is not that far away and has a problem with Moth Plant up Monica Langham Reserve. Check your boots and shoes if you have been walking in that area.

YELLOW INVASIVE PLANTS – they might look pretty, but broom and the Australian Wattle should NOT be in our fragile natural environment. Let’s try to tackle the removal of some of these plants. If you notice them flourishing on the lake edge, we’d love you to do something about it.
Remember that you can cut stems of most invasive plants in spring and summer and then swab the stumps with glyphosate (100-200ml/L).
This Month’s Community Goals
• More litter cleans –we’ve set the date for our KEEP NEW ZEALAND BEAUTIFUL WEEK clean-up as the weekend of 19th-20th September. Exact date TBA.
• More awareness of our stormwater drains – are the ones close to your home clean and clear and going their job in these frequent storms? Adopt a stormwater drain and get your neighbours to help, too.
• More information on golden clam prevention. One of the most comprehensive sites is www.niwa.co.nz then go to THE IMPACT OF THE INVASIVE GOLD CLAM ON WATER SECURITY tab.
Project Updates
• September is clean-up month. You can help by joining volunteers as we litter-pick prior to the Tiger Trout Competition in September. Dates to be advised. Joanne Rees is the lead on this big clean-up on behalf of RRCA.
• MEMBERSHIP OF RRCA ON THE RISE. Many thanks to those residents who recently supported our pest reduction scheme by funding the stop-gap gas canisters and bait paste pouches. WELCOME, and THANK YOU so much.
EEEEEK!
Pest Reduction Programme – funding approved! Our team will be out checking traps very soon.

Action Board – Get Involved
 Volunteer at events
 Help with fundraising (we need help with funding applications)
 Working bee crew for w**d busting and disposing of dead trees on lake edges.
THANKS EVERYONE 😊
HOW TO STAY IN TOUCH WITH RRCA
FB Lake Rotoma Lake Rotoehu Community Association
Andrew Smith, Chair, Phone 027 510 6977
Lynda Roewen, Secretary, Email [email protected]

02/02/2026

ROTOMA-ROTOEHU COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION

FEBUARY 2026 NEWSLETTER

Hi everyone. We hope that you had a great Christmas and New Year break and were able to find
some respite from the changeable weather. Let’s hope for better lake conditions for the last of the
summer months.
WHAT YOU WILL FIND HERE:
 Update from our AGM
 Update from Andrew Smith, our Climate Change representative
 Update on local initiatives on Golden Clam prevention
 Events coming up this year in Rotoma and Rotoehu
 How to become a member and why
 And how to ask us a question – and find us.
THE AGM ended up being well supported and we are pleased to advise that we have 3 new
Committee members and 1 co-opted member.
RE-ELECTED COMMITTEE MEMBERS ARE – Andrew Smith as Chair, Pam Lang as Treasurer
(we’d love to hear from you if you would like to join Pam to learn this role), Helen Shaw and Vic
Jenkins. Sandra Haines has stepped down as Secretary but thankfully remains on Committee.
It’s so good to have a mix of existing and long-term Committee members who know the history of this
area, as well as new people with their range of skills.
OUR NEW COMMITTEE MEMBERS ARE Lynda Roewen (now Secretary, great management skills),
Charles Te Kowhai (special interest in pest eradication and playing rugby), Jonette Mead (governance
background), and co-opted member Abbie Dods (social media and Bio Security Officer for the
Rotorua Lakes).
A special thanks to Lynne Reardon and Julie Riggir who have stepped down from Committee
this year. They showed great commitment to both Rotoma and Rotoehu. A big thanks too, to

those who attended the AGM. There was great discussion.

LRRCA CONSTITUTION. In line with the new legal requirement for revision of Constitutions, your
Community Association has made some alterations that better reflect the needs of the community and
make for a better governance model. This will be submitted for ratification to the Incorporated
Societies Commission on behalf of the Members by due date of 1 st April this year.

CHAIR, ANDREW SMITH.
 The Rotoehu Rotoma Climate Change Working Group (RRCCWG) presented to the
Rotorua Te Arawa Lakes Strategy Group a paper in 2025 detailing several recommendations
for the group to consider. They accepted the report in principle but would not commit to
anything, because the group was going to change several members in 2026. The group are
holding their next meeting in February which I and Nic Newman (Climate Change Programme
Manager, BOPRC) will attend. Nic and I are trying to ensure that all our work over 2025
doesn’t get forgotten and that it stays on the agenda of the Strategy Group.
 GOLD CLAMS – I, Adrian and Julie from Lake Rotoehu attended a small meeting with
William Anaru (Environment Manager Te Arawa Lakes Trust) to talk about this major threat to
our lakes. A lot of work is being done in the background to combat this pest, and we have
asked for a public meeting to be held to explain what will be happening. There is a lot of
gossip out there and it is good that it is being discussed, but it needs to be factual, not
hearsay. We asked for signage to be erected at all access points to the lakes. Not little signs
but huge ones, so they are seen and hopefully read and adhered to.

Abbie Dods, who has joined the committee, is now a Bio-Security Officer for Te Arawa Lakes
Trust so please feel free to talk to her when she is on duty.
More to come as things progress.
EVENTS FOR 2026
 The mighty TIGER TROUT HUNT will be back in September. More details to come.
 NEW ZEALAND-WIDE CLEAN-UP WEEK will reach into our area again in September, with
clean-ups along the bays and shorelines of Rotoma and Rotoehu. Clean-up week is from 13 th
to 19 th September.
 REGULAR MINI LITTER CLEANS – we love how you all support these. It’s a great way to
protect our environment and meet people.
 HALLOWEEN FOR OUR KIDS AT ROTOMA AND ROTOEHU. Are you keen? We could
organise something but would love a team of parents to help keep us relevant and the
children safe

DID YOU KNOW that there are plans underway for a COMMUNITY GARDEN in Rotoma? Yvette
Daniel and Reagan Pryor, garden and soil experts, are managing this project. If you want to
find out more, visit their FB page ROTOMA COMMUNITY GARDEN. RRCA intends to support

this initiative through promotion and advocacy.

OUR COMMITTEE MEETINGS. Want to discuss something with us? Please know that with advance
notice, we can have you attend our meetings. See how to get in touch at the end of this newsletter.

HOW TO BECOME A MEMBER – It has been $30 per household but any donation/koha. This is an
annual membership that runs from January to January. Join by emailing us or talking to a Committee
Member
Your membership is so important to us. With numbers comes strength and connectedness
and is so useful when we apply for funding for various of our initiatives such as pest-reduction

programmes.
Have a great Waitangi Day and watch the weather forecasts.
Find us on FB – LAKE ROTOMA LAKE ROTOEHU COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION
CONTACT
 Andrew Smith, Chair Mobile 0275106977
 Lynda Rowewn, Secretary
Email to [email protected]

From the Committee of LAKE ROTOMA-ROTOEHU COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION.

26/01/2026

Urgent: Have your say on fishing and hunting before 13 February

Parliament needs to hear from you about important new environment laws before 4.30pm Friday, 13 February 2026.
The Government is replacing the Resource Management Act with two new bills that will shape the future of fishing and hunting in New Zealand.
While we welcome some changes, the current proposals don't adequately protect what matters most to anglers and hunters.







What's at stake

The Natural Environment Bill and The Planning Bill will determine:
· Whether trout and salmon habitat is recognised and protected
· How hunters and anglers’ access to rivers, lakes and wetlands is protected and enhanced

· Whether our remaining wetlands (less than 9% of New Zealand’s original wetlands exist) continue to decline

· Fish & Game's ability to advocate for the places and species you care about







What we're seeking

We're asking for changes to ensure:
· Hunting and angling values are recognised
· Trout and salmon habitat is recognised and protected

· Wetlands are clearly defined and protected from incremental loss, while making it easier to create and restore them

· Your Sports Fish and Game Management Plans are recognised in planning decisions

· Public access for anglers and hunters is protected and enhanced

· Fish & Game can continue fulfilling its statutory advocacy role







Want to learn more?

Read more information on our website here
Fish & Game will host a webinar on February 11 at 7pm for licence holders who want to hear Fish & Game’s views on the reforms to help inform their submissions. Register here.







How you can help

There are two ways to make your voice heard:



Option 1: Share your story
Tell MPs why fishing and hunting matter to you. Your personal experience is powerful.
Step 1. Draft your submission:
Please include a request that the committee amend the Bills to recognise hunting and angling values and the species and habitats we value. Use the following prompts to help guide your response:
· Why you love fishing or game bird hunting in New Zealand
· What healthy rivers, lakes and wetlands mean to you and your family

· What have you seen over the years – some experiences both positive and negative.

· What do you want your grandkids/future generations to experience?

Step 2. Visit the Parliament website.
Go to the Parliament website to make your submission here.
Step 3. Submit your response
Click "I am ready to make my submission". You can either:
· upload your submission as a document or PDF
· Paste your text directly into the comment section.

Step 4. Share your submission with us (optional)
Please also email it to [email protected] if you would like us to share your messages and encourage others to do the same.

Option 2: Make a detailed submission - if you want to recommend specific changes to clauses
We’ve prepared a breakdown of issues and solutions covering wetlands, ecosystem health definitions, environmental limits, the habitat of trout and salmon, access, Water Conservation Orders, and recognition of Fish & Game sports fish and game bird management plans.
Step 1. Review the detailed submission guide
We've outlined key issues and the solutions we're seeking here.
You can use these to inform your own submission.
Step 2. Visit the Parliament website.
Go to the Parliament website to make your submission here.
Step 3. Submit your response
Click "I am ready to make my submission". You can either:
· upload your submission as a document or PDF
· Paste your text directly into the comment section.

Step 4. Share your submission with us (optional)
Please also email it to [email protected] if you would like us to share your messages and encourage others to do the same.





Why this matters

Fish & Game represents 300,000 anglers and hunters who contribute around $1 billion annually to regional economies.
Beyond the economic contribution, hunters and anglers care about conservation, spending countless hours protecting and enhancing New Zealand’s outdoors including habitats, wetlands and remote wild places.
We need Parliament to hear directly from you, the people who fish and hunt. Your submission matters.
· Deadline: 4.30pm Friday, 13 February 2026
P.S. Even a short personal story makes a difference. Please take 10 minutes to share why angling or game bird hunting matter to you.

03/01/2026

Public Notice of Community Association AGM

Due to several of our committee looking to resign this year we are thinking about amalgamating with the Rotoma Hall Committee. Unless we can find some willing participants to take on the three positions available (Chairperson, Secretary and Treasurer).

If you don't want this to happen and feel you can take on the running of the Association please come along to the AGM.

If you wish to be nominated or to nominate someone else, please contact us via DM as the nomination forms need to be completed before the actual meeting.

AGM to be held 11 a.m. Sunday 18 January at the Rotoma Hall

Secretary

08/10/2025

07/10/2025

Hi,
As most of you know, there was a working group looking at what could be done about CLimate change and a report was presented to the Stratagy Group recently. Phill Thomass was going to post it on Facebook but unfortunately, he passed away before this was done. So I have asked for a link to be made so people interested could download the file. It was too large to post directly onto a post. This link is only valid for 90 days. After that, i have a copy on my Laptop so just request it.

24/09/2025

Council acknowledges passing of community board member

Date:
24 Sep 2025, 3:04 pm
Categories:
News

Today we express our sadness at the passing of Phill Thomass, who had served on the Lakes Community Board since 2013.

Mr Thomass passed away yesterday following a lengthy battle with cancer.

Despite his illness he continued his work for the community board, serving as chair from 2016 and putting himself forward for re-election in this year’s Local Elections.

Acknowledging his contribution, Rotorua Mayor Tania Tapsell said Mr Thomass dedicated much of his life to the protection and enhancement of the district’s lakes.

“His leadership, vision, and tireless efforts leave a legacy that will benefit our community for generations to come.

“We are inspired by the courage with which Phill faced his long battle with cancer, and we know that his deep love for Rotoiti and our wider community brought him strength and purpose. Above all, Phill cherished his whānau, to whom we extend our deepest aroha and condolences.”

Over the years Mr Thomass championed numerous projects for the benefit of lakes residents and visitors, advocating for and leading work, alongside residents and council staff, to improve and upgrade facilities and amenities. As well as his duties as chair of the community board, he also participated in various working groups.

E te reo kōrero o te Rāngai Kōroto Moana, e te ringa tōhau nui, e te rangatira, Phil

e tangi ana te ngākau i te Kaunihera o ngā roto o Rotorua ki a koe

e kore te aroha e mōhio ki tōna rētōtanga, kia eke rawa te wā o te wehenga

ka rere tonu te aroha mutunga kore ki a koe i te ao, i te pō

nō reira e moe e te piki kōtuku, e moe.

Ka tuku te maimai aroha ki te whānau pani e mōteatea nei i tō koutou taonga o te mate

nō reira, nui te aroha nā mātau ngā Kaimahi o te Kaunihera ki a koutou katoa.

To the Lakes Community Board Chair, to the most diligent and esteemed colleague, Phil

we, the Rotorua Lakes Council grieve your loss

love knows not its own depth until the hour of separation

and our everlasting affection for you remains for all time

rest now our treasure, rest.

Heartfelt condolences to the grieving family as you lament the loss of your loved one

All our love from the council staff to you all

30/08/2025

If you're looking for a family activity on Father's Day, why not join with other community members in a rubbish pick up at Matahi Spit Reserve. Starting at 10 am we will be having a bit of a spruce up to make the place look even better for our visitors for the Tiger Trout Hunt the following weekend. The more people we have the quicker it will be.