AKV B+ Session 4
Looking Ahead and Getting Hands-On
The fourth and final session of the AKV Business+ pilot programme took place on 26 May 2026 and brought the group together for a final recap, discussion and hands-on planting session.
The group met at the Turboweb building, home of the Aroha Kaikorai Valley headquarters, where participants reflected on the journey of the programme so far. There was plenty of discussion around the places visited, the practical activities completed, and the different things people had taken away from the experience.
Participants shared what stood out most to them across the programme. For some it was the trapping work and learning about predator control, while others enjoyed the water quality testing, stream health monitoring, planting work, or the visit to Mt Grand and learning more about where Dunedin’s water comes from. The programme also created strong networking opportunities, with businesses building new relationships and connections across the valley.
A presentation from Janice Huang from Otago Regional Council focused on stormwater systems, drains and how runoff interacts with the Kaikorai Stream and wider catchment. The session helped businesses better understand how urban infrastructure connects directly to stream health and environmental outcomes.
Following the presentation, the group travelled to Dynes Transport where participants planted 50 native plants along the edge of the Kaikorai Stream. The planting was a practical contribution to the future health of the stream and symbolised the wider purpose of the programme, businesses working together to make a positive long-term impact in the valley.
The group then returned to the Turboweb building for a final wrap-up session where certificates were presented to participants recognising their involvement in the pilot programme.
The final session reinforced the success of AKV Business+. Participants consistently spoke about how valuable the programme had been, not only in learning more about the environment and catchment, but also in creating stronger relationships between local businesses, community groups and environmental organisations.
