Hayes Common Café in Hamilton East has joined the Endangered Species Foundation’s Awhi Awa project, leading the way in how businesses can contribute to waterway restoration. By purchasing two Awhi Awa kete and caring for the waterways outside their café they are helping educate customers and restore the habitats of endangered native freshwater species.
General Manager of Tāngaro Tuia te Ora, Endangered Species Foundation, Natalie Jessup with Co-owner of Hayes Common Lisa Quarrie before installing the ika (fish) signs.
“The streams outside our café flow straight into the Waikato River, and what happens here affects our awa and ultimately the ocean,” says Lisa. “All waterways are connected, and by caring more about what we put into these precious systems, collectively we can make a massive difference.
Hayes Common has supported the kōaro (endangered fish) and tuna (long-fin tuna) through Awhi Awa as a way of honouring this connection and increasing awareness about these taonga species. Their commitment to Awhi Awa shows how local action can create positive impacts, for our urban waterways and the life that depends on them.
“It’s inspiring to see a business like Hayes Common take such a proactive approach to environmental care,” says Natalie Jessup, General Manager of Tāngaro Tuia te Ora – Endangered Species Foundation. “This is the first business in Waikato to embrace this initiative and we hope that many more will follow.”
The tuna (long-fin eel) sign made of scrap stainless steel which now adorns the water fountain and dog bowl at Hayes Common, reminding people that our waterways are home to endangered fresh water fish species and that urban streams flow to the sea.
Inspiring Change
The café’s dedication reflects their commitment to Te Mana o te Wai — the health and vitality of water. By taking care of a stretch of the Waikato River’s ecosystem, they’re championing the kaupapa of restoring urban waterways and protecting the native species that depend on them.
“Caring for the environment isn’t something we do on the side — it’s part of who we are as a business,” says Co-Owner Brent. “Awhi Awa has given us the tools and knowledge to make a real difference, and we’re excited to see how this journey grows.”
Project Manager Christie Goodwin from Tāngaro Tuia te Ora, Endangered Species Foundation, handing an Awhi Awa kete to Co-owner of Hayes Common Brent.
Tackling Food Waste, One Plate at a Time Hayes Common is also addressing food waste, turning kitchen scraps into nutrient-rich compost for local gardens.
“Food waste is a big issue in hospitality, and we wanted to be part of the solution," explains Lisa. "Turning scraps into compost is another way we can support te taiao (our environment) and give back.”
If Hayes Common’s actions inspire you, learn more about the Awhi Awa project and purchase a kete to care for your local stream here:👉 Awhi Awa | Embrace a Stream
Thank you, Hayes Common, for being the first business in Waikato to lead the way in two new environmental initiatives, help to restore our precous waterways and te taiao. ✨