Reviving a legacy wetland in Manu-kau Noa Iho / Hayman Park
22 April 2025
- Manukau
- News
- Mana Whenua
- Sustainability
From late April to December 2025, parts of Hayman Park in Manukau will be temporarily closed for work to further enhance its green spaces. This will complete the full regeneration of the park, complementing the much-loved playground, which was upgraded in 2023.
Once a thriving wetland that filtered water before it reached Waipuhinui (Puhinui Stream), and the Manukau Harbour, Manu-kau Noa Iho / Hayman Park was a vital hub for native fish, birds, insects, and plants.
Working alongside Te Ākitai Waiohua, Ngaati Tamaoho, and Ngaati Te Ata Waiohua, Auckland Council’s Healthy Waters and flood resilience teams, the Ōtara-Papatoetoe Local Board and Eke Panuku Development Auckland are bringing this natural taonga (treasure) back to life. Together, we’re rejuvenating the land and its ecosystems, preserving it as a thriving, living space for future generations.
Artist impression of the new entrance from Davies Ave into Manu-kau Noa Iho / Hayman Park
Manu-kau Noa Iho / Hayman Park Repo (wetland) project is a key part of Te Whakaoranga o te Puhinui (Puhinui Regeneration Strategy), weaving together cultural heritage and returning our waterways back to health, a major milestone in the Manukau’s journey toward a greener, healthier South Auckland - led by Eke Panuku and supported by the Ōtara-Papatoetoe Local Board.
“This incredible project, over a decade in the making, would not be possible without the hard work of our Mana Whenua, Eke Panuku, Healthy Waters and Flood Resilience, the design team, and the wider Auckland Council whānau. A special thanks to the Ōtara-Papatoetoe Local Board for their ongoing advocacy and leadership. As we restore the land to its original wetland form, we ask for the community’s patience and understanding. Some areas of the park will be closed, so please respect the barriers for safety during this important work.”
Manukau Ward Councillor
Lotu Fuli
Mana whenua
Integral in Te Puhinui Regeneration plan, Manu-kau Noa Iho / Hayman Park holds deep cultural significance, particularly for local iwi Te Ākitai o Waiohua, Ngaati Te Ata Waiohua, and Ngaati Tamaoho. This project offers a chance to regenerate the whenua (land) and uplift the tangata (people) connected to it.
A whakaawatea karakia (blessing) was held on Monday 7 April, led by mana whenua, who hold this place close to the heart. Their connection to the land was honoured as they marked this significant milestone in the project. This was a reminder of the sacred relationship between people and whenua, reinforcing the importance of stewardship and the commitment to regenerating the health of both the land and its waters for future generations.
“Currently there is a stagnant dead pond located on the park. It serves no purpose. Under this project, the wetlands will be revived, and we hope a habitat for our flora and fauna to live and thrive in. This is whakaoranga – bringing back to life.”
Ōtara-Papatoetoe Local Board Chair Apulu Reece Autagavaia
“This project has been a long time in the making, and it’s incredibly special to see it come to life. Hayman Park has always been the green jewel at the heart of Manukau, and now we’re helping it shine even brighter.
At its heart, this work is about returning oranga (health or wellbeing) to the land and water, reimagining Hayman Park as a thriving, resilient green space for generations to come. From the park to the Auckland Botanic Gardens and beyond, we’re building stronger walking and cycling connections, and deeper connections to nature.
This is a major step forward—not just for the park, but for the whole Transform Manukau journey. It’s about supporting sustainable growth, creating new homes and jobs, and delivering the kind of infrastructure that strengthens community wellbeing and the natural environment. This is a proud moment for all of us.”
Eke Panuku Priority Location Director Richard Davison
What exciting things can the community look forward to?
- A new repo (wetland) filled with native planting and rich in wildlife habitat that will improve water quality before it flows into Te Puhinui and the Manukau Harbour
- The main existing pond will be transformed into a vibrant, naturalised wetland, with native plants species surrounding the area to help treat and provide for rich biodiversity
- Accessible pathways will wind through the landscape, inviting visitors to explore, while key entry points are being revitalised to make the park feel even more welcoming
- Stunning artwork featured throughout, this project is bringing to life a space that honours both the environment and the cultural heritage of the land, creating a dynamic hub where nature and community flourish side by side.
These changes will create a home for native plants and wildlife, while also helping to clean stormwater before it flows into the Puhinui Stream and Manukau Harbour.
Why does this work need to be done?
Hayman Park’s stormwater ponds were originally built in 1975 as part of the former Manukau City Council’s development of the town centre. The ponds provided water detention and quantity control for the surrounding areas.
Over time, issues with sediment build-up, bank stability and litter have begun to cause problems with the ponds. It was agreed that a natural treatment process in the form of a wetland and installing a litter-capturing device would deliver the most effective solution for a cleaner, healthier environment.