Tree trust exceeds its target

Maraetotara Tree Trust chair Pat Turley with project co-ordinator and trustee Kepa Toa at one section of the riverbed they are working to restore. Photo/ Paul Taylor.

The Maraetotara Tree Trust has gone beyond its fundraising goal with the Million Metres Streams project raising $25,800.

The trust is working to restore the Maraetotara River and Million Metres crowdfunding was set up to help plant 4500 native plants and trees eco-sourced from Hawke's Bay along 1000m of the riverbanks between Okahu Station and Tuahu Farm.

Maraetotara Tree Trust chairman Pat Turley said this support from the public was set to become a permanent feature of the Hawke's Bay landscape.

"Maraetotara Tree Trust's people and supporters are thrilled. Million Metres Streams-enabled crowdfunding is an awesome result for the river."

Hawke's Bay Regional Council are a project partner and Ben Douglas from council said this was fantastic.

"The Million Metres team has done an amazing job of connecting generous individuals and businesses with a great cause. I'm really looking forward to seeing the change in the river over the coming years."

Mr Douglas said, as promised, they would keep people updated with photos and details on this project's progress once a year.

"You'll be able to see how the trees are growing. We'll inform you with any changes to animal life and water quality."

Mr Turley said the trust invites crowdfunding donors to stay in touch via its website: maraetotaratreetrust.co.nz to see completed planting works later in 2018.