The Guardians of Lakes Manapouri, Monowai and Te Anau turns 50 this year.
The Save Manapouri campaign, which fought to prevent the raising of lake levels for the Manapouri Power Project, is often considered the birthplace of New Zealand’s environmental conscience.
In the wake of the battle, members of the Fiordland community formed the Guardians of Lakes Manapouri, Monowai and Te Anau, and for the past five decades it has continued to protect and preserve the natural beauty of the environmentally and culturally significant lakes.
Next month, the organisation will celebrate its 50th anniversary in Te Anau, with a weekend of events for past and present Guardians, including a tour of the Manapouri Power Station, a tree-planting ceremony, a formal dinner and an opportunity for the community to learn more about the ongoing work of the Guardians.
Guardians representative Madeleine Peacock said the organisation was established in 1973 by the incoming Norman Kirk-led government, following the completion of the Manapouri Power Station, which threatened to flood and destroy this pristine wilderness in Fiordland National Park.
Since then, with legislated powers under the Conservation Act 1987, the Guardians had been instrumental in ensuring the lakes remained in their natural state, free from any negative effects of hydro-electric power generation.
"This anniversary is a time of reflection on the achievements of the Guardians over the past 50 years, and acknowledgement of those who have given their energy, time and passion to maintain the gains made by the establishment of the group.
"It is also an opportunity to recognise the partnerships we have with Meridian Energy, Pioneer Energy and the Department of Conservation, as well as Te Rūnanga O Ngāi Tahu, who have representation on the Guardians."
Ms Peacock said her grandfather Sir Les Hutchins was one of the original Guardians and she was proud to continue his legacy of working to preserve the special places for future generations of New Zealanders.
She said the establishment of the Guardians was an international masterclass in how development and conservation can work together for mutually beneficial outcomes.
"We believe that this celebration is a significant event, not only for the Guardians, but for the environment that benefits from their protection, the local community who call these lakes home and all those who have fought for the protection of New Zealand’s environment over the years."
