More than 5000 native trees have been planted at Pirongia’s Sainsbury Road Reserve in a bid to help nature flourish.
The community planting event attracted strong support from Pirongia residents and their whānau, mana whenua representatives, Waipā District Council staff and members of the local horse-riding and mountain biking clubs. More than 70 people rolled up their sleeves and planted 2500 natives over the morning, with the balance planted the next day.
Customer and community services group manager Sally Sheedy said it was heartening to see so many people come out to take part in enhancing the reserve for future generations, especially the number of families who got involved.
“This really feels like a full-circle moment — from community feedback shaping the reserve management plan to people now getting their hands dirty and making it happen.”
Mana whenua planted three kauri as a symbolic start to the restoration of the reserve.
Pirongia Horse Riders Club member Ange Carson said her group was proud to be part of the project.
“We’re grateful to have contributed to the reserve management plan and excited to see the first stage of planting come to life,” she said. “And my kids had a blast. They played in the swamp, got covered in mud and planted a few plants – everyone was so lovely to the kids. We’ll definitely be back for more!”
Pūniu River Care prepared the planting site, provided the plants and planted another 2500 natives the following day – and will continue to care for them by providing weed management.
“We couldn’t have planted so many natives without such incredible support. We’re truly grateful to everyone who gave up their time to lend a hand — it was a fantastic example of how teamwork can achieve great things,” Sheedy said.
The planting also contributed to the Taiea te Taiao Project, which seeks to restore an ecological corridor between Maungatautari and Pirongia along the Mangapiko and Ngāparierua Streams
