Take care of Bay coasts for national volunteer week

For Bay residents stuck for something to do for National Volunteer Week the coastline could use some help.

Coast Care has invited locals to "make time" and help dune plant this week as part of National Volunteer Week (June 19 to 25).

Coast Care co-ordinator for the Western Bay of Plenty Paul Greenshields said every little bit of time Bay residents can give to Coast Care would help keep the dunes intact.

Fresh air, good company and great beaches were just some of the rewards volunteers could get from a few hours of dune planting, Mr Greenshields said.

"Native dune plants help to bind sand onto the beach and stabilise the dunes. Healthy dunes can better protect our coastal roads, properties and wildlife habitat from wind and wave erosion. It also creates more beach area for people to enjoy," he said.

Coast Care dune planting was not limited to just National Volunteer Week, rather they were held most weekends at different Bay of Plenty locations throughout June and September.

Upcoming dates include Sunday June 26, near Omanu or at Pio Shores, and Saturday July 2 at Pukehina Beach. A new group was being formed for Papamoa Beach with their first dune planting day scheduled for July 24.

"We usually start mid-late morning. It takes about two hours, and volunteers are rewarded with a cuppa and a muffin afterwards.

"Parents are welcome to bring their children along.

"All you need to bring is covered sturdy footwear, clothing suitable for the weather and gardening gloves. Your favourite spade is optional," Mr Greenshields said.

The Coast Care programme was delivered through a partnership between Bay of Plenty Regional Council, four coastal district and city councils (Western Bay of Plenty, Tauranga, Ōpōtiki and Whakatane) and Department of Conservation.

Find out more at www.boprc.govt.nz/coastcare