The Avon-Heathcote Estuary Ihutai Trust was officially formed in October 2002. this followed numerous public meetings from which a working group was formed, consisting of representatives from the community, existing groups (Friends of the Estuary and the Christchurch Estuary Association), the Christchurch City Council and Environment Canterbury.
An interim board was formed and a call for general members first went out to the public in March 2003. This generated around 100 members made up of people from all sides of the estuary and Christchurch.
The inaugural AGM was held in August 2003and the first official Trust Board was formed, made up of 14 members, including representatives from CCC, ECan and local Runanga Ngai Tuahuriri. Also attached to the Board are staff liaison officers from CCC, ECan, an Administrator and a Treasurer. The Trust Board meets monthly on the the 3rd Wednesday of each month.
