Levin's Kimberley Reserve clean-up generates plenty of rubbish

This was gathered within an hour of starting the clean-up at the Kimberley Reserve.

It took less than a hour for a handful of people to collect bags of rubbish at the Kimberley Reserve on Saturday. Many others were still out and about filling their bags.

Among other things the small crew found two pairs of pants, a camping chair and the remains of a table. Some found evidence of the riverbank having been used as a toilet.

The reserve is a popular camping spot and has public toilets. They also found cans, glass and plastic drink bottles.

A lot of rubbish was found under the trees and shrubs, including camping chairs, two pairs of trousers and a cushion.

Horizons Regional Council staff organised the clean-up. Most of the rubbish was found on the fringes and in the bush, under trees.

"This is one of many swimming spots we monitor for E. coli and bacteria," said Horizons Communications Manager Chrissie Morrison.

One Kimberley Road resident said she turned up because as a local she felt she had a stake in the state of the place.

"The rubbish is not easy to find. It is mostly in the undergrowth and there is quite a bit. It is sad to a few spoil it for everyone else."

Two Levin girls had turned up armed with gumboots, sunhats and sturdy gloves.

Alizaye (7) and Aaliyah (5) from Levin were first time cleaner-uppers at the Kimberley Reserve.

They said they liked being part of the clean-up.

"It is important. We have to look after the earth," they said.

Alizaye (7) and Aaliyah (5) were offered hands-on experience by their mum.

"We wanted to show respect for the land and the water and this is better than words."

The girls found a shampoo bottle and a big empty coke bottle and lots of bit and pieces, such as paper and plastic.