Rain gardens are essential to Long Bay infrastructure, helping to filter rainwater runoff before it reaches our waterways. These specially designed gardens absorb and treat stormwater, reducing pollutants and preventing flooding. They play a crucial role in the Awaruku and Vaughans Stream catchments, where natural water quality treatments have been integrated into the streetscape and our open space network.
Rain gardens improve water quality but also contribute to urban cooling and biodiversity by supporting native plants and insects. However, they can only function effectively when they are properly maintained. Unfortunately, some of our rain gardens in Long Bay are damaged due to neglect, illegal parking, or inappropriate/inadequate maintenance. We as the community need to understand their importance and our role in preserving these features and keeping them in good condition.
Why Do Rain Gardens Matter?
Rain gardens are filled with native grasses and plants designed to capture rainwater and filter out pollutants such as stormwater runoff from downpours, roads, driveways, and sediment. The plants filter and absorb any pollutants, so clean water is soaked back into the ground before they enter our beautiful waterways.
Rain gardens make the Long Bay development more sustainable:
- They are a key element of the sponge city approach, which promotes green infrastructure that naturally manages our stormwater.
- The gardens enhance our streets and communities’ resilience from nature’s elements by slowing water flow to our drains and reducing the risk of erosion and flooding in our streets and homes.
- Create a diverse home for insects and wildlife.
A well-maintained rain garden contributes to a healthier and more sustainable environment whilst enhancing the look of our neighbourhood. These systems are crucial for protecting our local streams, preserving our coastal environment, and improving biodiversity.
How Can You Help?
- No Parking in Rain Gardens – Parking in these gardens compacts the soil, damages the plants, and prevents them from absorbing water effectively. This has been a particular issue along Longshore Drive, where vehicles have been causing harm to these important structures. Please, no parking in the gardens or next to them, thank you!
- Assist with Maintenance – While Auckland Council is responsible for maintaining rain gardens, residents are encouraged to help by carefully weeding and trimming overgrown vegetation in front of their properties. The Auckland Transport Bioretention Planting Guide provides in-depth recommendations for maintaining them to support their long-term functionality and resilience.
- Report Issues to Auckland Council – If you notice an overgrown or damaged rain garden, you can lodge a complaint with Auckland Council by calling (09) 301 0101 or using their online form: Auckland Council Report a Problem. Please note your job reference number so it can be followed up easily, or if you need our support, contact us: longbayra@gmail.com
Rain Gardens in Long Bay
This image is an example of a poorly maintained and damaged rain garden:
If you see a rain garden in this condition, report it to Auckland Council ASAP, following the directions above.
The developer or council will need to repair the garden before regular maintenance can occur.
This image is an example of a correctly maintained and healthy rain garden:
This rain garden can function correctly to capture rainwater and filter out pollutants. It can improve water quality, contribute to urban cooling, and improve biodiversity.
Correctly caring for our rain gardens can ensure these gardens continue to protect Long Bay’s environment for years to come. Let’s keep our community rain gardens functioning as they should!
Please contact us if you have further questions or need support: longbayra@gmail.com
Maeva Ord & LBRA