Emma Giesen's family footprint is growing this year. The former organiser of Waitakere's popular Trees for Babies event is planting her second native tree in one of four parks being beautified next month. She planted her first tree in 2005 at Massey's Royal Reserve when her first son was born. ``We planted atree for Louie and it was really special so we just have to do it again for the new baby. Louie and I will definitely be there with his little new brother or sister,'' says Titirangi-based Emma. A hundred native trees are lined up for each park to celebrate babies born in Waitakere in the past year. Selected species include titoki, rewarewa, kahikatea, cabbage trees, karaka, totara, rimu, puriri, lacebark and ribbonwood. Emma says the community project gives residents, who later move, an opportunity to re-visit the area and their tree in years to come. ``It's not so much about associating with a specific tree but just being part of a special project.'' Around 5000 trees have been planted in parks since Trees for Babies began 13 years ago. Keep Waitakere Beautiful Trust project manager Moira Kennedy says the project seems to be having a widespread effect as more native birds flock to the area. ``We like to think that Trees for Babies plantings can take some credit for that. ``The trees are creating natural food and shelter preferences for our native birds.'' The tree planting events include entertainment for youngsters, with face-painting, a bouncy castle, clowns and music. - By Holly Reid Parks confirmed for this year's events are Olympic Park (Portage Rd entrance), New Lynn, May 5; Tui Glen Reserve, Henderson, May 12; Hindmarsh Green, Waitakere, May 19; and Pooks Reserve, Massey, May 26. All events will be held between 11am and 1pm. Trees are provided free.
