Our programme, formerly known as RiverLink, now carries the name Te Wai Takamori o Te Awa Kairangi, meaning ’the soothing waters of the Hutt River’.

This name, gifted by Kura Moeahu, chair of Te Rūnanganui o Te Āti Awa, honours the deep cultural, spiritual, and historical significance of the river and speaks to the healing power of water, reminding us of our responsibility to care for Te Awa Kairangi/Hutt River and ensure its wellbeing for future generations.

Te Awa Kairangi is a taonga and awa tupua (treasured ancestral river) for Taranaki Whānui ki Te Upoko o Te Ika and Ngāti Toa Rangatira. It is the largest river in the Wellington region, flowing from the Tararua Ranges through forested streams and urban landscapes before reaching Te Whanganui-a-Tara (Wellington Harbour). It is a vital source of freshwater and sustains a rich ecosystem, including rare and endangered species.

This name change reflects the strength of our partnership with iwi and our shared commitment to honouring the histories, values, and kaitiakitanga (guardianship) roles that they hold. Just as the ancestresses Hine-wai-tōtā, Hine-kōrako and Hine-wairere soothed the land after the dramatic actions of Ngake, the tupua (ancient phenomemon). We too must protect and restore the river’s mouri (life force) through the work we do together.