When you think of ‘cleaning up’ you probably don’t imagine building new nests for eels to call home.

Unless, that is, you’re part of the team helping to heal Te Ararata Stream in West Mangere.

More than 50 Kāinga Ora team members from across Counties-Manukau got together with Te Ararata Stream Team and other volunteers over winter to mulch, collect rubbish, build new pathways and – of course – restore nests for the eels that call the river home.

“It’s been great to see so many people coming together for a good cause,” said Kathleen Lolohea, Kāinga Ora Stakeholder Relationship Manager.

“This is ongoing as well. Kāinga Ora is part of this community, so we’re keen to keep working with our neighbours to make this an even better place to live.”

Kāinga Ora will continue to support the stream team in the New Year with their mahi in Mangere West.

If you’d like to get involved, get in touch with Kathleen on kathleen.lolohea@kaingaora.govt.nz.