About us

Where We Came From

Whāingaroa Environment Centre (WEC) was started in 1997 by a group of locals concerned about erosion and other environmental problems in, and around Whāingaroa (Raglan) Harbour.

The Whāingaroa Environment Catchment Plan was developed from five years of community discussions and meetings, aimed at creating a sustainable environment.

One of the recommendations of the plan was to create an Environment Centre and Whāingaroa Environment Centre (WEC) was established in 1997. We are so glad to be here!

Ā Mātou Whāinga
Our Mission

Strategic plan pdf

Deepening community-shared knowledge of our environment and encouraging action towards a balanced and resilient Whāingaroa

He waka eke noa
We are all in the canoe together, no exceptions

We deliver environmental programmes, workshops, and raise awareness of environmental issues.

The WEC hub is located in the Raglan Town Hall and is used as an office, meeting and workshop space.

We also have a mobile hub that we take out into the community. The mobile hub is used to promote environmentally sustainable practices and connect the community with our projects.

Our Team

We are a diverse group of locals with differing professions and a united passion for the environment.

WEC is led by a committee of five dedicated volunteers who provide strategic direction and guide our plans.

Our committee works to support four Project Coordinators who lead our projects and work to engage our community.

Most importantly, our incredible volunteers across all workstreams make up a critical part of our team.

Sustainable Development Goals

In 2015, the United Nations adopted the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development which includes 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The work we do at the Whāingaroa Environment Centre supports local activities that contribute to achieving these goals.