Winter plantings a community affair as crowds of enthusiasts gather to put in thousands of trees

Nearly 80 people helped out at the Pukahu Community Planting Day yesterday. Photo/Warren Buckland

Nearly 200 people attended two community plantings along the Tutaekuri River and the Karamu Stream over the weekend.

The Waiohiki (Tutaekuri) Community Planting Day was held on Saturday morning on Waiohiki Rd and the Pukahu (Karamu) planting was held yesterday morning on St Georges Rd.

Saturday's planting of 4000 trees by more than 100 people was organised by the Hawke's Bay Regional Council (HBRC) and the Waiohiki Marae.

HBRC councillor Paul Bailey said he was thrilled with the turnout which was higher than previous plantings due to more people wanting to help their local community.

"The public are becoming far more conscious of environmental issues and water quality issues . . . it's a positive way for the community to give back.

"I'm really encouraged by the support at the plantings."

Te Kaha Hawaikirangi, who attended the planting on behalf of his marae, said he was pleased with the diversity of people who came to help from all over Napier.

The planting would help the natural habitat of the river as well as beautifying the area for people wanting to walk along it, he said.

Napier resident Teresa Redington came to the planting with her daughter and grandson so she could be more involved in her community.

"It's wonderful to be involved in a local project."

Yesterday's planting, organised by Hastings-Havelock North Forest & Bird (HHNFB) and HBRC, saw 1400 trees planted by nearly 80 people.

HHNFB branch co-ordinator Linda Johnson said more than 20 different types of trees were planted which would be beneficial for the area.

"It's very important for the health of our native species, for the plants as well as insects and birds," she said.

"Also for the health of the streams, the eels and native fish.

"It's also really important for people by taking carbon dioxide out of the system and putting it into the plants and the beauty helps our mental well-being."

There were nearly 30 children at the event which was great to see, Ms Johnson said.

"They begin to love and respect the environment outside of their house."

More winter plantings are planned throughout the region with the next one being held at Pakowhai Regional Park next Saturday, June 17.

Visit www.hbrc.govt.nz for more information.