This has become a common expereience for Kaitiakitanga organisers Marama Meikle, Mike Staite and Kiri Danielle.
They have been busy filming with Maori Television to raise awareness about litter, and reconnect people back to the whenua (land) and their wairua (spirit).
The group has a "return to sender approach", by which they track down the people responsible for the litter and return it.
"We have had a few so far, but we approach it with love and give them tools to make positive decisions in the future," says Marama.
She makes a good point that littering impacts not only places, but also people because it is happening where they live.
Helping out that day alongside locals made me realise how quickly littering adds up.
I couldn't help but think if everyone in Rotorua littered once, that would make 68,900 pieces of litter.
You can see how quickly it adds up.
However, the common sense to not litter needs to add up, too.
Mother Earth needs nurturing so please look after her. Our future generations will thank you.
Tania Tapsell became Rotorua's youngest district councillor last October.
