Get your gloves dirty for a good cause this winter
Every winter, our Regional Parks and Forests team hosts planting events in the Waimakariri River Regional Park, and they love having helping hands.
If you’re in or around Kaiapoi, Rangiora or Christchurch this winter, why not come along to one of the events as a volunteer? You’ll get to experience some different spots in the regional park, benefit the environment in a practical way, and meet a great group of rangers and other volunteers.
“Planting a native tree is more than just putting something in the ground, it’s a way to connect with the area and our awa on a personal level,” said Brad Smith, regional biodiversity officer.
“It’s something you can return to over the years and see grow, knowing you’ve played a part in restoring the mauri of the land. These planting days are a chance to get hands-on, give back to our rivers, and be part of something that lasts.”
Events and information coordinator Gill Walsh is particularly looking forward to the rubbish clean up event on August 10.
“The more we can clean up around the river berm, the less rubbish will make its way into our precious awa and out to the ocean, said Gill.”
Upcoming planting events
Forest & Bird plantings –14 June and 19 July
There are two Forest & Bird plantings happening in The Sanctuary – Saturday 14 June and Saturday 19 July. Both events start at 9:45am and our rangers will be around to help out. Find out more and RSVP.
KidsFest - Come plant with me – 12 July
On Saturday 12 July at 10am, we will be hosting a Kidsfest event encouraging tamariki to plant some native trees and learn about why we have chosen those plants. This event is located in Te Rauakaaka. Find out more.
Community planting, Templers Island – 2 August
Join us on Saturday 2 August at Templers Island to plant along the southern bank of the Waimakariri River. This event starts at 10am and finishes with a free BBQ lunch for our volunteers. RSVP here.
Waimakariri off road clean-up event – 10 August
Rubbish pick-up events are a simple but powerful way to care for our environment. Rubbish dropped in the parks can end up along our coasts and oceans after getting blown into our rivers and being dragged downstream.
We will be hosting a clean-up event on Sunday 10 August near Harrs Road. A BBQ lunch will be provided. RSVP here.
Community planting, Baynons Brake – 13 September
The northern bank of the Waimakariri River is our focus on Saturday 13 September. Planting starts at 10am and there will be a free BBQ lunch. RSVP here.
What should I bring?
Our rangers recommend bringing:
- a water bottle
- sturdy shoes/gumboots
- a sunhat if it’s warm
- a jacket if it’s rainy.
We provide portaloos, drinking water, spades and clean gloves, but feel free to bring your own equipment if you would prefer.
If you have further questions, please contact our duty ranger (duty.ranger@ecan.govt.nz). We look forward to seeing you!