South Beach clean-up celebrates national Seaweek

Horizons Regional Council is inviting Whanganui residents to join them and the Department of Conservation (DOC) for a South Beach clean-up on Saturday 4 March.

The clean-up is part of the national Seaweek celebrations, which aims to encourage New Zealanders to get to know the ocean, its habitats, characteristics and inhabitants better during the week of 25 February-5 March.

Horizons environmental educator Sarah Galley says the clean-up is a great opportunity for the community to come together to care for a local asset.

“Caring for the beach by ensuring it is litter free is really important as it is the last port of call for rubbish before it ends up in the ocean,” she says.

Community ranger Scotty Moore says DOC is pleased to be coordinating Seaweek for the Whanganui District.

“We appreciate working with our partner organisations to raise awareness of the species and challenges that exist along our unique coastline,” he says.

Ms Galley says the clean-up will kick off at 3pm from the parking area at the South Beach end of Airport Road and wrap up at approximately 5pm with a BBQ supplied by DOC.

“DOC is offering three options for those that wish to take part. The first is getting on a bus to the South Beach end of Pauri Domain Road and walking back approximately 6km to Airport Road. For this option attendees need to register with DOC as seats are limited to 50.

“Another option is walking from Airport Road to meet the Pauri Domain walkers and is a good choice for those who are unsure if they can commit to a long distance or arrive late. Finally, people can walk through the dunes from Airport Road or walk along the beach towards the South Mole and meet others returning.”

If other members of the community would like to join the event DOC asks that they wear appropriate clothing for the exposed beach, bring snacks and supply their own gloves. Buckets and sacks for collecting rubbish will be provided.

 Horizons chairman Bruce Gordon says the clean-up is a great opportunity for people to respect and nurture the beach environment.

 “Cleaning the beach not only creates a more pleasant experience for those that visit the area, but also helps with sand dune care and water quality. Horizons is pleased to be part of this event and appreciates the local contributions of time and resources.”

 To register for the bus option please call For more information on the South Beach clean-up, please contact Scotty Moore on 06 349 2134 or email smoore@doc.govt.nz.

Wider regional activities taking place during Seaweek include education days with Whanganui schools at Mowhanau Beach and a beach clean-up at Foxton Beach in Horowhenua on Friday 3 March. For more information about Seaweek see www.seaweek.org.nz