A Chance To Put Down Roots

It's a chance to get your feet dirty, plant some trees, learn about the environment, meet your neighbours and have fun.

Saturday June 7 is the Waikanae Estuary Care Group's annual Open Day at the Manly Street estuary entrance opposite Hadfield Place in Paraparaumu. It all starts at 9am with the planting of native trees and shrubs, before a morning tea, care group talk, pest plants and pest animals tour and a lunch-time barbeque.

Care group chairperson Jeff Eaton says the Open Day is about celebrating the commitment and passion of local people to their local environment, as well as bringing the community together.

"We are thankful for the amazing work of our volunteers. Through their contribution to the estuary they are building a treasured resource for future generations.â€

The Waikanae Estuary Care Group was formed in late 2004. Its main aim is restorative planting at the Waikanae Estuary Scientific Reserve - one of the largest remaining estuaries in the country and on the list of New Zealand's wetlands of national significance because its catchment is largely intact native vegetation.

The care group has carried out many restorative plantings and working bees within the reserve and has grown significantly in both numbers and support. The group also has a shade house where native plants are grown from locally collected seed.

Jeff says the Open Day is an opportunity for the wider community to learn about the group's restoration vision, and join in.

"Being part of a care group is not only about improving the environment, it's also a great way of contributing to the community, meeting people and keeping fit.â€

Jeff says everyone is welcome to attend the Open Day but he reminds people to bring wet weather gear, sturdy boots and gloves.

Visit the Waikanae Estuary Care Group webpage. www.gw.govt.nz/waikanaeestuary

ENDS

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