Table for Tomorrow: Celebrating 10 Years of Community Action for Freshwater

Gather today. Shape tomorrow.

This November, WAI Wānaka is inviting the community to take a seat at the table for a special milestone.

Table for Tomorrow is a fundraising long lunch celebrating 10 years of WAI Wānaka and looking ahead to the future of freshwater in the Upper Clutha. Held on Friday, 13 November at Edgewater, Wānaka, the event will bring together community leaders, businesses, supporters and changemakers for an afternoon of exceptional food, meaningful connection and inspiring conversation.

For the past decade, WAI Wānaka has worked alongside schools, scientists, volunteers, landowners, businesses and community groups to better understand and protect the freshwater environments that sustain our communities and define this remarkable rohe (region).

Freshwater lies at the heart of life in the Upper Clutha. It supports biodiversity, recreation, livelihoods, and community wellbeing, while shaping the landscapes that make this place so special. As our rohe continues to grow, community involvement in caring for these environments is more important than ever.

Table for Tomorrow is an opportunity to celebrate what has been achieved over the past 10 years while helping WAI Wānaka’s ongoing work in freshwater science, education, environmental monitoring and community action.

Guests will enjoy a curated banquet lunch overlooking Lake Wānaka and hear from keynote speaker Sir Ian Taylor, one of Aotearoa New Zealand’s most respected entrepreneurs, innovators and storytellers. The afternoon will also feature live and silent auctions with a range of exclusive experiences, products and prizes donated by local businesses and supporters.

Guests will have the opportunity to view artwork by internationally acclaimed artist Andrew Tischler, whose work celebrates the natural landscapes and waterways that inspire so many people to call this rohe home.

WAI Wānaka Chief Executive Cat Dillon says the event is both a celebration and an invitation.

“Over the past decade, our community has shown what’s possible when people come together around a shared purpose. Table for Tomorrow is a chance to celebrate that journey, while investing in the work still needed to ensure healthy freshwater ecosystems for future generations.”

Whether you’re a long-time supporter of WAI Wānaka or simply care about the future of local lakes and rivers, everyone is welcome.

Table for Tomorrow
Friday, 13 November, 2026
12noon – 3.30pm
Edgewater Hotel, Wānaka
Learn more and book tickets at:
www.waiwanaka.nz/table-for-tomorrow
Together, we can help shape a healthy freshwater future for generations to come.