Source: Environment Canterbury Regional Council
Digging the shovels in for success
After an introduction from Youth Rōpū member Zoe Croot and a quick planting demonstration from ranger Matt Hunt, volunteers grabbed their spades and got to work. The group, which contained individuals of all ages and abilities, worked quickly and within a few minutes, plants were in the soil.
Joe Davies, Councillor for Christchurch North East/Ōrei, attended the planting day and said “We got through the planting quickly, with a motivated and energised group.
“It was a well-organised event with some upskilling, clear instructions and plenty of planting, and we finished with a tasty barbeque!”
Volunteers make all the difference
This was the third planting day hosted in the Waimakariri River Regional Park this year. Our Parks and Forests team generally supports around twelve planting days each year. The cooler months of the year provide optimum soil moisture which allows the seedlings to develop roots, intake nutrients, and thrive better than they would if they were planted in drier summer soil.
Jolie Sarginson, co-chair of the Youth Rōpū, said the members love to volunteer during the weekends. She was especially pleased to see one of their newer and younger members Zoe leading the day.
“Our favourite thing about planting days is being able to see a direct impact on the environment, whereas a lot of our other work can take much longer to see change.”
Councillor Davies values the benefit it brings to his role representing the region. “It’s an opportunity to meet community members and get a better understanding of our natural landscapes.”
Learn more about upcoming planting events and sign up now.
Empowering young people
Our Youth Rōpū is a group of people aged 14-24 who are enthusiastic about the environment, civics, and empowering young people across Waitaha/Canterbury. Made up of up to 20 members, it was formed to facilitate a two-way relationship between young people and decision-makers at our council. This gives our rangatahi an opportunity to promote the issues they care about.
