Porirua’s streamside planting programme continues to flourish, with hundreds of thousands of native plants added to the landscape since the initiative began in 2021. The effort, aimed at protecting waterways and enhancing biodiversity, is a growing source of pride and community engagement.
This year, the goal is to plant another 165,000 native species, helping filter sediment, reduce erosion on hillsides, and support wildlife in the Porirua Harbour catchment. Since its launch, the programme has seen 359,000 plants go into the ground across more than 127 sites, thanks to the dedication of Council staff, contractors, volunteers, and school groups.
“It’s heartening to see how many people show up, especially groups who turn out on a regular basis year after year, to help with this big and important piece of work,” said Mayor Anita Baker. “The vision to restore our harbour, Te Awarua-o-Porirua, and our waterways, takes a long time and a lot of work to achieve.”
As the winter planting season approaches, there will be several chances for the community to get involved. The first Council-led community planting day is set for Saturday 24 May, 9.30am–12pm, at Cannons Creek Lake, in partnership with Ngahere Korowai.
A special Matariki planting event will be held at Bothamley Park on Friday 20 June from 10.30am–1pm, where 1,900 plants will be added to the park’s native bush.
The season will wrap up with the largest event on Saturday 16 August from 10.30am–1pm in Papakōwhai. Around 3,000 plants will be put into the wetland across from Papakōwhai Reserve.
In addition to Council efforts, many local groups continue to run their own planting, weeding, and clean-up events across the city.
For more details and ways to get involved, visit poriruacity.govt.nz/streamside-planting.