Greentown project under way

Greytown residents watched in disbelief yesterday as they were handed free bags containing literature, apple juice, moisturiser, energy saving light bulbs and dishwashing liquid. The bags, which are made from recycled billboards, were distributed as the first part of the Greater Wellington Regional Council Greentown initiative, touted as a "month of sustainable living" for the town.
At the same time, the Cobblestones Pride of the Valley horse and coach, driven by Hawkes Bay-based horse owner Steve Muggeridge and pulled by his draught horses Charlotte and Ben, had Greytown School helpers and Greater Wellington Regional Council representatives dropping off bags to houses down West Street.
"A lot of people couldn't believe that we were handing something out for free because you don't get anything for free these days," community environment projects co ordinator Robyn Smith said.
And for Greytown-based environmental educator Warren Field, the day had been the culmination of hard work for his team of helpers, with a positive outcome.
"I saw people, as soon as they got the bag they were regarding (the information enclosed).
Yesterday marked the official launch of the programme, with a United Nations flag signing at the Greytown Town Centre, a powhiri and speeches by South Wairarapa District Council Mayor Adrienne Staples and Greater Wellington Regional Council chairperson Fran Wilde.
The Greentown month-long initiative includes various other events, including a dawn ceremony for Matariki at Greytown School and a Papawai Stream planting.