Plant a tree for Earth Day

Horizons Regional Council, Palmerston North City Council and Friends of Waitoetoe Park are encouraging people to celebrate Earth Day on 22 April by planting a tree at Waitoetoe Park.

The planting will be one of many environmental activities taking place across the world under the annual Earth Day initiative, which aims to build a healthy, sustainable environment, address climate change, and protect the Earth for future generations.

Horizons environmental management officer Neil Mickleson says planting a tree provides an opportunity for people to get back in touch with the world around them and reflect on the steps they can take on a daily basis to reduce their environmental footprint.

“We have around 800 trees ready to be planted at Waitoetoe Park alongside the Manawatu River. Planting a tree is just one of the ways people can work to reduce their impact on the world around them,” Mr Mickleson says.

“Earth Day is a good opportunity to think about what you can do to aid environmental sustainability alongside your colleagues, friends and family.”

To raise awareness of the positive impact planting trees can have, John Flenley, a Massey University professor, will be onsite selling his book Trees, Trees, Trees. At $20 a copy the book focusses on climate change and planting trees to help improve the environment.

The planting day will commence at 12 midday, with a barbeque lunch for all attendees and a few short speeches. Planting will wrap up at 2.30pm.

Anyone wishing to participate in the planting is encouraged to bring their own spade, gloves and appropriate footwear. However, some spades will be available.

Organisers are hoping for sun but will proceed regardless. See the Friends of Waitoetoe Park Facebook page for further information and updates.