Ten years ago, members of the Greenhithe Community Trust realised local bird song had gone very quiet.

A monumental effort saw an environmental movement born – involving gritty conversations and grant applications.

With a growing number of dedicated people helping restore coastlines and reserves – eco groups have joined forces to create the Upper Waitemata Ecology Network.

“This is why the upcoming Meet the Candidates opportunity will have an environment focus – while also providing a significant opportunity for Mayoral and local board candidates and news media to place their fingers on the pulse of the Upper Waitemata community and what really matters ahead of the local body elections” chair of Greenhithe Community Trust Ivor Jacobsen says.

In annual figures recently calculated, eco volunteers in the Upper Waitemata logged over 26,000 hours: planting trees, trapping pests, pulling up weeds, clearing rubbish and restoring waterways.

“That was more than any other region in Tamaki Makaurau. Children, businesses, families and retirees are involved in projects across the Upper Waitemata” Ivor says.

Greenhithe is in the centre of the Waitemata, and the centre of the Northwest Wild Link where birds can use forests to move between breeding areas on the Hauraki Gulf islands and the Waitakere Ranges.

Greenhithe is also happy to be in the centre of the conversations that keep politicians caring about the remaining tracts of significant native forest desperate for help.

It’s at times like these where people need to reflect on the importance of voting, and knowledge is power. Refreshments will be provided.

Meet the Candidates - Sunday Aug 24 - 3pm to 5pm - Greenhithe Community Hall.

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