COMMUNITY PLANTING DAY 2024
Community Planting Day at the Pūniu Awa.
Saturday 31st August 2024
On Saturday the 31st of August, Pūniu River Care proudly hosted a Community Planting Day, a successful initiative that brought together community members of all ages, local sponsors, and environmental enthusiasts. This event embodied the organisations core values - Mauri, Kaitiakitanga, Whanaungatanga, Māramatanga, Rangatiratanga, and Koha - while fostering a sense of unity and environmental stewardship.
There is a deep understanding that stories tied to the Pūniu River are worth telling and preserving for generations to come. We understand the importance of shared knowledge and story telling, so, this event was centred around providing a space for our community to connect and come together to help create a beautiful space along the Awa.
This event also represents a crucial step toward improving our local environment, fostering community engagement and promoting sustainable practices that benefit both people and the environment.
Thanks to everyone who attended and embraced the unpredictable weather changes! Our heartfelt appreciation goes out to the community, our sponsors and our kaimahi who all came together to make our Planting Day a success
"He rau ringa, i oti ai" (Many hands make light work)
The Community Planting Day attracted over 40 participants, including families, students, and local volunteers. Together, we planted over 8000 native trees and shrubs, contributing to the restoration of our local environment and enhancing biodiversity.
This planting event carried Pūniu River Care’s unique approach to planning events bringing more purpose to the project at hand. Events manager and other senior leads held a white board session aligning the organisations core values to the task at hand. Following is where the team landed providing a certain outcome of community engagement, educating and informing and recognising the bigger picture and a special part we must all play.
- Mauri: The essence of life was at the forefront of our activities. Each participant was encouraged to reflect on their connection to the land and the importance of nurturing it for future generations. The planting not only aimed to restore the environment but also to enrich a spiritual and cultural connection to the land.
- Kaitiakitanga: As guardians of the environment, we informed all participants about sustainable practices and the significance of protecting our natural resources. Basic demonstrations were conducted on native planting ensuring healthy growth and habitat restoration by sharing the role of each individual in preserving our ecosystem.
- Whanaungatanga: The day was a true celebration of community. Participants came together in a spirit of togetherness, forming new friendships, strengthening existing relationships and happily rubbing shoulders with PRC Kaimahi who do this mahi every season. Sharing stories, laughter, and a collective purpose fostered a sense of belonging among all involved.
- Māramatanga: Knowledge sharing was a key component of the event. Environmental enthusiasts and conservation experts provided insights into the ecological benefits of native planting and environmental care. Participants left with the feeling of not only contributing to the environmental enhancement of the community, but also with an enhanced understanding and commitment to sustainable practices.
- Rangatiratanga: Leadership was exemplified through the active involvement of PRC kaimahi who attended. Local guidance and support was sought after following the sudden passing of the Maaori King, and local marae Kaumatua. This ensuring that all steps taken were for the health and safety of all in attendance and every voice was heard and valued. This collaborative approach empowered event manager to continue with the ecent acknowledging the work that had gone into organising the event from PRC kaimahi. This event would be dedicated to the passing of Kiingi Tuheitia Potatau Te Wherowhero VII, and his belief of everyone working together through kotahitanga.
- Koha: Generosity was demonstrated through the spirit of giving. Participants gifted their precious time, and some brought food to share showcasing the community's kindness and support for one another. Local businesses Waipā Hire Te Awamutu and Cambrilea Weed Spraying Ltd contributed much needed resources, demonstrating their commitment to community well-being.
The Community Planting Day was not only a success in terms of the number of plants placed in the ground but also in fostering community spirit and environmental awareness. By embodying our core values, we created a meaningful experience that reinforced our commitment to sustainability and community cohesion.
As we look forward to future initiatives, we are excited to continue building on the momentum generated by this event, nurturing our environment, and fostering strong community ties.
Thank you to all participants, sponsors, and volunteers for making this day a memorable one!
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the following sponsors whose support made this event possible:
- Waikato River Authority
- Becca
- Maximize Consultancy
- GMD Consultants
Their commitment to the community and the environment significantly enhanced the success of the event.
