Lake Waiparera closed for swimming and taking of water while Ngāitakoto implement collaborative restorative project!

The iwi of Ngāitakoto, alongside Northland Regional Council (NRC) and Te Whatu Ora, have taken decisive action to close Lake Waiparera following the detection of lower than normal pH levels in the water. Recent testing shows this roto (lake) is currently unsafe for human health, posing risks if consumed or through contact such as swimming or wading. As a precaution, the closure aims to protect whānau, visitors, and the wider community while further investigations are undertaken and their restorative strategy is implemented in 2026.

Lake Waiparera is a dune lake situated on the Aupōuri Peninsula in the Far North District of Northland. It lies immediately north-west of community of Waiharara which is approximately 70km north of Kaitāia.

It is the largest lake on the Aupōuri Peninsula, covering around 103–108 hectares and is relatively shallow (maximum depth ~5–6 m). The catchment is mainly pasture (~70%), with the rest in native scrub and wetland. There are several small inflows, but traditionally no obvious outflows. Lake Waiparera is ecologically significant and supports a range of waterfowl and bird species, such as black swan, paradise shelduck, dabchick, grey teal, NZ scaup, fernsbirds and various shags. It also hosts native fish*like lake-locked inanga and eels (tuna).

Lake Waiparera is also culturally significant to Ngāitakoto and Te Aupōuri, historically also known as Lake Waiparerera, after a native duck called the grey teal (Anas gracilis) that used to be found in abundance at this roto. So Waiparerera can be understood as “waters of the parerera (grey teal)”, reflecting the lake’s historical importance as a habitat and mahinga kai for waterfowl.

In the past, this lake has been the focus of ecological restoration efforts, including fencing, planting and weed control to improve water quality and habitat. Historically, the lake has experienced issues such as algal blooms and eutrophic conditions tied to nutrient runoff and shallow depth — so water quality can vary seasonally. Human behaviour such as illegal dumping has also negatively impacted the health of this roto.

Signs have been erected by Te Whatu Ora recently to prohibit the taking of water and to prohibit swimming in lake Waiparera while restoration efforts commence as a collaborative kaupapa (initiative) between Ngāitakoto, Te Kura o Waiharara, local Ngāitakoto marae, local community, Northland Regional Council and Te Whatu Ora. If these signs are removed, please report to Health Protection on (09) 430 4100 and if you have any further questions please email consult@moanawhenua.com.