The Waikumete Stream flows from a catchment known to local iwi Te Kawerau A Maki as Okaurirahi, The Great Kauri. It is of central importance to Te Kawerau A Maki as it flows from the mountain range traditionally known as Hikurangi and the large forest expanse Te Wao nui a Tiriwa (the Great Forest of Tiriwa) now known as the Waitakere Ranges.
In the 1860’s settlers came to farm the area in the wake of timber milling. In 1880 the Auckland to Kaipara railway line was opened which led to the establishment of the Waikumete Cemetery and gave growers a means to get their fresh produce to Auckland.
For most of its history Waikumete Stream was unpolluted and brimming with life. It was both a source of drinking water and food for Te Kawarau a Maki and the European settlers who followed. Project Twin Streams Glen Eden is working ensure the mauri (life force) of the Waikumete Stream remains strong for generations to come to enjoy.