Lake gets plant makeover after volunteers dig in

Volunteers get stuck in planting 2000 native plants around Dudding Lake on the weekend. Photo/Supplied

Volunteers joined Horizons Regional Council staff to plant 2000 native plants around Dudding Lake on Sunday, thanks to donations from the Honda Tree Fund and Honda Wanganui.

About 50 people from Watkins Honda (Wanganui), Forest and Bird, Marton Lions Club, Dudding Lake Trust, Rangitikei Tramping Club and Horizons were planting from 9.30am.

Their efforts will help beautify the lake while reducing erosion and improving biodiversity.

Dealer principal Lindsay Watkins said Honda donated 10 native trees through its Tree Fund for every new car sold, with local dealers donating three, while the customers were invited to contribute as many as they would like.

"Over the past 10 years, just short of 600,000 native trees have been planted throughout New Zealand under the Honda Tree Fund initiative."

Bill Martyn, from Horizons, said all 2000 plants were chosen and placed to achieve the best result.

"Soft grasses and flaxes have been planted at the lake's edge as they break down wave action that's eroding the shore.

"The mixture of shrubs and trees further up will help bring birds such as tui, bellbirds and kereru to the area and kanuka holds a lot of insects," he said.

"When it comes to preserving and enhancing our natural environment, every little bit helps.

"It wouldn't be possible without support from local communities and businesses like Honda."