Media Release 2 May 2008
Dig In for World Environment Day on Karamu Stream
Te Karamu Community Planting Days
3- 7 June for World Environment Day
A week long ‘dig in’ in June will be an opportunity for businesses, schools and community groups to get involved in the
enhancement project for the Karamu Stream in Havelock North and celebrate World Environment Day.
Te Karamu Enhancement Project has been chosen by Hawke's Bay Regional Council as the focus for World Environment Day
celebrations. It also enables many people to do something special for their local environment. Around 5000 trees and
shrubs will be provided for people to plant on the stream banks which will eventually create a bush walk for everyone
to enjoy.
“We want to make this a positive event for everyone to get involved in - from kindergartens to businesses, families to
school classes, individuals to clubs or sports teams,” says Council’s Engineering Planner Lisa McGlinchey, who manages
Te Karamu Stream Enhancement project.
“People can start registering now to get involved in this special project - dig in and create something new that
everyone will enjoy well into the future.”
The planting event fits well with the focus this year on New Zealand as the international host nation for World
Environment Day. As well as events happening around the world, there will be many events happening around the country
to reflect the theme “Kick the Habit” (the carbon habit). The focus is on taking action to move towards a low-carbon
economy and lifestyle. World Environment Day is also on the same day as Arbor Day so planting trees celebrates that
occasion too.
The Regional Council has already completed the earthworks for this phase of Te Karamu Enhancement Project and has
created a new ponding area alongside the stream. This wetland will provide a habitat for water birds and help improve
water quality entering the Karamu.
Register by phoning (06) 833 8085 or email karamu@hbrc.govt.nz. People can register for up to 2 hour participation
between 10am and 2pm on 4,5 and 6 June, and from 10am until 12pm on Saturday 7 June.
The planting events will take place alongside the Karamu Stream with access from Napier Road or Crosses Road.
Participants are asked to bring a spade, water bottle and sun protection or wet weather gear. Pedestrian access is
available off Napier Road or under Crosses Road Bridge from Park's Reach. Parking and traffic supervision will be in
place, and Safety/Hazard plans will be in action.
ends