Background
A group of farmers and growers from around Taranaki, together with Venture Taranaki, initiated discussions early in 2020 about the challenges facing the rural sector and the possibility of establishing catchment communities around the region. This group came together as Taranaki Catchment Communities (TCC) with the aim to lead, engage and mobilise Taranaki’s rural sector to ensure a more environmental, economic and socially sustainable future.
Funding from MPI enabled TCC to work with individual catchment groups from around the maunga to identify priorities and actions that would contribute to the sustainability of their communities. At the core of this project is the strength and diversity of the farmer-led TCC, who had already identified the need for change and the desire to create models and learnings that can be shared industry-wide. A farmer-led approach ensures those most impacted by proposed actions are at the forefront of driving their response.
Community involvement
There has been a strong groundswell of support from rural Taranaki communities for the work of TCC. To date:
Approx. 6,000 hours voluntarily committed to support this work
500+ farmers attended community meetings
Over 60 events facilitated
15 catchment groups formed + one region-wide working group
Developed relationships with community groups, local authorities, industry bodies and local iwi.
Our Vision
People, Land and Water Prosper Together.
Our Purpose
To empower and connect communities to drive a thriving future for Taranaki people, land and water.
Our Objectives: How we work towards our purpose
Ag-vocate: We will ag-vocate for rural, acting as a voice for the rural community to connect, correct misinformation, and share stories of success.
Connect: We will build strong, trusted relationships that grow resilient, supportive communities, and trust.
Collaborate for Collective Impact: We will seek partnership with others to work collectively and achieve greater impact.
Environmental Improvement: We will drive practical, measurable improvements in water quality, biodiversity, soil health and climate resilience.
Innovate: We will investigate and test new ideas, adapt to change and lead smarter approaches to land and water management.
Research & Data: We will use robust data to inform decisions, track progress and strengthen catchment action.
Education & Training: We build skills, confidence and capability for sustainable land stewardship, business and community resilience.
Our Values: The way we show up
Respect & Inclusion: We foster a culture of respect and care, welcoming diverse perspectives and recognising the value of every person.
Integrity & Responsibility: We act honestly and transparently, taking responsibility for our decisions and creating safe spaces where people can speak openly and challenge respectfully.
Collaboration & Collective Progress: We build strong relationships and work together in good faith, aligning our efforts to achieve meaningful progress across our catchments.
Farmer & Community Led: We are farmer and landowner led, grounded in our communities and valuing every voice. Those closest to the land help shape practical, locally driven solutions.
Honour Te Tiriti: We honour Te Tiriti o Waitangi and are committed to respectful partnership with iwi and hapū, recognising the importance of shared knowledge and local leadership.
Curiosity & Open Minds: We stay curious, keep open minds, and welcome information from diverse sources and experience – combining practical experience, local knowledge and science for wise decision-making.
Stewardship: We care for land, water and communities entrusted to us. We act as responsible guardians, making decisions that protect and enhance wellbeing for future generations.
Outcome-Focused & Positive: We focus on practical outcomes that improve environmental, social and economic wellbeing. We measure progress, learn as we go, and celebrate success.
