Contiki has been a long time supporter of Sustainable Coastlines and their great crew are always keen to roll up their sleeves and do some good mahi. Thursday August 10th 2017 was no different with a crack team of nine keen tree planters descending on Harbourview People’s Park (Orangihina), on Te Atatu Peninsula, West Auckland. The weather came to the party and the day was set.

Orangihina is at the mouth of the Whau River, one of Auckland’s most important historical waterways and was once used as an important link between the west and east coasts of Auckland. At the upper ends of the waterway, the stream comes to within a few hundred metres of the Manukau Harbour and local iwi used this as a portage point to haul waka between the Manukau and the Waitematā. Unfortunately, these days, it is known more for its tyres, shopping trollies and poor water quality than its historical importance.

So what better way to show some appreciation for the Whau River and Waitematā Harbour than by planting 501 beautiful native trees!

The Contiki team dug deep (it was pretty muddy!) and what looked like a huge stack of native trees at the beginning of the day quickly whittled its way down to the last few. With obligatory high fives all around, the team finished the day with time to spare and smiles on faces.

A huge thanks to Contiki for their love of nature and hard work and determination. Special thanks to the wonderful Dianne and “Action Man” Mark for spearheading this groups support of Sustainable Coastlines.

Can’t wait until next year!