A Rocha Aotearoa is undertaking a massive tree planting drive in Auckland and Christchurch on Saturday, 14 June to seed more than 1,500 trees to support this year’s World Vision 40 Hour Challenge.

The Christian environmental organisation will gather Youth Groups from across the country to roll up their sleeves and plant native trees to raise funds to support the one in six children in the Pacific who face severe food insecurity due to climate change.

James Beck from A Rocha Aotearoa says, “By partnering with World Vision, we’re giving young people an opportunity to plant hope – quite literally – by restoring native bush and improving biodiversity. The climate crisis can feel overwhelming – but small, local actions really do add up. This is about more than planting trees – it’s about planting seeds of justice, hope, and resilience.”

In Auckland, the teams of young people will gather to plant at Unsworth Reserve in Unsworth Heights to restore the ecological balance of the reserve, contributing to a healthier urban environment. They will have support from World Vision, the Upper Waitematā Ecology Network, and local churches.

In Christchurch, youth will gather at South Shore Spit Reserve—an internationally significant ecological site—to help regenerate native vegetation and protect habitats for migratory birds. The project will be run in collaboration with the Avon-Heathcote Estuary Ihutai Trust, Christchurch City Council, and forms part of A Rocha’s Good News Project, which equips young people to care for creation as an expression of their faith.

World Vision Associate National Director TJ Grant says the organisation values partnerships with organisations like A Rocha.

He says through activities, like planting native trees and raising funds for communities affected by climate change, the partnership demonstrates that local action can have a global impact. It’s a powerful example of hope, connection, and doing good—together.

“These tree planting events are a powerful example of hope, connection, and doing good—together. We know that climate change isn’t just a distant issue—it’s something we can respond to in our own communities and on behalf of our neighbours across the Pacific. Whether you're planting trees, taking on a personal 40 Hour Challenge, or donating, every action counts.”

Youth groups interested in participating in either of the events can register online through A Rocha Aotearoa New Zealand. To learn more about the World Vision 40 Hour Challenge, visit worldvision.org.nz/40hour.

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