Western Bay of Plenty locals are being asked to dig in and help make a difference at a community planting day in Te Puke’s Lawrence Oliver Park.
With more than 2,000 native plants ready to go in the ground, Western Bay of Plenty District Council is inviting people to be part of this important mahi, on Saturday 19 July, to help create a thriving wetland in the park.
“This isn’t just about native planting – it’s about planting a sense of connection. When the community helps shape a space like this, it becomes something we all take pride in,” said Council’s Community Outcomes Advisor, Liesel Carnie.
“It’s a great way to connect with the environment and each other, so come along, get your hands dirty, and help create something special.”
The restoration project, at the southern end of the reserve, will see 2,775m2 of the park transformed into a treatment wetland, to improve water quality, support wildlife, reduce flooding, and add to the park’s recreational and cultural value.
It is a joint initiative with Council, who owns the land; the Bay of Plenty Regional Council, who maintain Managh’s Drain bordering the reserve; and the Te Ara Kahikatea Pathway Society, who previously established a 4km public pathway in the area, which passes around part of Lawrence Oliver Park.
Adjacent to the pā site Te Aore – which was a camp for forces during battle at Te Tumu – the area has unique cultural values, with mana whenua providing guidance to ensure those values are acknowledged and upheld.
“Everyone is welcome to come along to the community planting day- we’re looking for as many helping hands as possible,” says Liesel.
“The area is likely to be wet and muddy, so we recommend wearing gumboots or sturdy shoes, and clothes you don’t mind getting dirty. If you have gardening gloves or a spade, bring them along – but we’ll have some available to share too.
“We’ll also have some morning tea on hand as a small thank you to everyone who comes out to help.”
What: Community Planting Day
When: Saturday 19 July, 10am start
Where: Northern end of Lawrence Oliver Park, Te Puke
What to bring: Your own drink bottle, spade, gloves
What to wear: Closed footwear (preferably gumboots), something warm, something waterproof
Parking: Parking will be available along King Street and Landscape Road, but this will be limited, so you may need to park further afield and walk in.
Important information: There are three open water ponds in the area, so children must be supervised at all times.
