Wai-o-hata (Duck Creek)

The Wai-o-Hata (Duck Creek) catchment covers from the Belmont Hills through the suburb of Whitby, is a vital ecological and recreational corridor in Porirua. Spanning approximately 1,032 hectares, this system supports a diverse range of habitats and aquatic life, notably inanga, banded kokopu, and longfin eels. Wai-o-hata (Duck Creek) plays a role in maintaining the health of the downstream Pāuatahanui Inlet estuary.

Water quality in Wai-o-hata (Duck Creek) is influenced by a combination of natural processes and urban pressures. While riparian restoration has improved shading and bank stability, the catchment is subject to stormwater runoff, sedimentation, and nutrient inputs from surrounding residential areas. 
Greater Wellington Regional Council carries out environmental monitoring at one site in the lower reaches.