Press statement:
Gift Of Green Ceremony To Be Held

Petone parents with a child born in the past year will receive a gift of a tree from Keep Petone Beautiful at a forthcoming ceremony.

"Gift of Green" as it is known has been going for ten years and has the objective of increasing the number of trees in Petone and marking the birth of local children.

"We hope," said Chairperson Roy Hewson, "that parents will plant the tree in their garden, and let the child care for it in time."

"Gift of Green" is sponsored by Petone Rotary and originated from a similar project held in Greensborough, North Carolina.

Mr Hewson explained that the trees and shrubs used are propagated by local identity Reg Cotter of Bolton Street, and are well suited to Petone conditions.

Application forms are always available from the Little People’s Shop in Jackson Street.

Formed in 1989, Keep Petone Beautiful is a voluntary organisation which brings together business, residents and local government to promote, enhance and maintain the visual appearance of the community, explained Chairperson Roy Hewson.

The committee meets on the third Thursday of the month in the Community House, Petone between 6pm and 7pm. New members are welcome, he said.

This year’s ceremony, the tenth of its type, will be held in the Petone Town Centre, Britannia Street, on Sunday 10 June, commencing at 2pm.

Meanwhile the committee has been investigating beautification projects for the shoulders of the Cuba Street and Hutt Road ramps.

The object is to create an attractive garden of native plants, including endangered local species.

In the case of the Cuba Street ramp it is a matter of completing plantings on the Petone side. Subject to funding this can be done this winter.

The Hutt Road ramp is more difficult being affected by encroachments and problems with access. Part is already in Agapanthas. Removing noxious plants such as fennel and blackberry will be an immediate priority. Any beautification may happen in the winter of next year.

For further information, contact Roy Hewson, 5686-449.

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