Planting Days offer much more

Nelson City Council has long appreciated the efforts of the volunteers who pitch in for the series of community planting days held each winter. This year Council will be aiming to reward that hard work by including some extra activities and fun for families.

The first “Plant Nelson” day is this Saturday (also Arbour Day) from 10am till 4pm at the Glenduan Reserve and Council’s Sustainability Coordinator Karen Lee is excited about the programme that is lined up.

“As well as the chance to get hands-on with plants, you can find out how the Boulder Bank was created, discover ancient fishing techniques and there’ll be a kids trail and competitions running all day with prizes to be won.

It’s great to be able to offer something extra to everyone who volunteers their time to make the Council planting days so successful,” Karen says.

Future planting events planned for July (Brook Valley) and September (Tahunanui Reserve) will carry on the theme, with a focus on activities and topics specific to the areas.

The full programme for the Glenduan Reserve Planting day on Saturday is:

11am –Stories of the Glen and Boulder Bank and how the Bank was formed –an informative walk with Mike Johnston and John Mitchell.
2pm - Workshop on ancient Māori fishing techniques – learn how fish hooks were made and used hundreds of years ago, presented by Richard de Hamel.
All day – A kids quiz trail and other competitions with great prizes to be won
12 noon to 2pm – A free sausage sizzle for the hungry, hard working volunteers (apples and drinks will be available throughout the day).
Everyone is most welcome to attend. No previous planting experience is needed and all equipment is supplied. Just dress for the weather and wear some strong footwear.