Government Invests $3 Million to Restore Northland’s Lake Ōmāpere

A project to restore Northland’s largest lake, Lake Ōmāpere, is set to receive a significant $3 million grant from the Government’s Regional Infrastructure Fund. Regional Development Minister Shane Jones and Associate Regional Development Minister Mark Patterson announced the funding on 21 October 2026, marking a major step forward for the environmental and economic health of the region. The project, titled “He wai ora; he iwi ora” (if the water is well, the people are well), is being led by Lake Ōmāpere GP Limited on behalf of the Lake Ōmāpere Trust. This first stage of work is estimated to cost approximately $5.9 million in total, with various partners contributing to the financial pool. The $3 million investment will facilitate essential enabling works including the construction of a weir to manage water levels, the creation of road access, and the procurement of necessary regulatory approvals. Minister Shane Jones highlighted the dual importance of the project, noting that for generations, local communities have held Lake Ōmāpere as a taonga. He stated that restoring the lake's health is an act of honouring that cultural connection while simultaneously building economic resilience. The funds will also support the design of future water storage infrastructure to ensure a stable supply for the area. Associate Minister Mark Patterson added that a healthy lake has the potential to strengthen food production and create further opportunities for Māori economic development in Northland. By improving the reliability of the water supply, the project aims to ensure that land remains productive even during dry periods. This collaborative effort between the Lake Ōmāpere Trust and the government seeks to realise a long-term vision of environmental restoration and community prosperity.