Mystery Creek Community Environmental DNA (eDNA) initiative

April 2023

Supported by the New Zealand National Fieldays Society, the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA), Wilderlab, AquaWatch (previously RiverWatch), and NZ Landcare Trust (NZLCT), this new initiative is a concerted effort to engage in the Wai Tuwhera o te Taiao – Open Waters Aotearoa programme, which supports connections with science and local environments. This project leverages environmental DNA (eDNA) to inform and unite our community in safeguarding our waterways and the broader environment. 

In Stage One in April 2023, we conducted initial benchmark testing at the Mystery Creek Events Centre jetty on the Waikato River, with the participation of a local school and above-mentioned businesses lending their support. Additionally, eDNA testing was performed at three other locations along the Mystery Creek stream. Simultaneously, AquaWatch installed their innovative 'Waka,' enabling real-time monitoring of water quality. By combining the eDNA test results with this live data, we are assembling the pieces of a puzzle to empower our community to work together to create a healthier environment.

In Stage Two, and with the insight from testing, we aim to collaborate with the local school, business community, and iwi to formulate a five-year plan for the restoration of our local waterways.

On 27 April 2023, the Society and NZLCT held workshops with Kaipaki School, and engaged representatives from Hamilton and Waikato Tourism, Tieke Golf Estate, Tomra, and LIC to discuss the results and the long-term trajectory of the project. Follow-up workshops have been held in July and September to brainstorm inclusive approaches for active participation from all stakeholders. 

During Fieldays 2023, the EPA organised daily workshops in the Fieldays Sustainability Hub, showcasing this project as an exemplar of best practices on a national and global scale, while providing insights into what other communities are busy trying to achieve.