Kapiti’s Wetlands Need You! 3 Great Community Events Coming Up

The world needs wetlands

Wetlands are considered the most biologically diverse of all ecosystems. They provide a habitat and enormous food source for fish, birds and other animals. These areas support the greatest concentrations of bird life of any habitat in New Zealand and support far more species that a comparable forest area. Native fish need wetlands too. And we need these species.

Wetlands are vital organs for our environment. They are able to sink carbon and can reduce the impacts of increased rain preventing flooding. They help stabilise shorelines and riverbanks. Wetlands also help to improve water quality by filtering and adding oxygen to water.

Over 90% of the wetlands in New Zealand have been drained since European settlement, mainly to create farmland. So it’s incredibly important that we work together to protect, conserve and restore these very special areas.

Kapiti wetlands need to be restored - help plant trees at these events

Three Kapiti community groups are asking for volunteers to help them plant out local wetland areas. Come and plant some trees, meet others in your community, learn a bit, get a great sense of satisfaction and be active!

Make sure you wear good footwear, bring a spade if you can and a bag to take away any rubbish.

Sunday 23 May from 9.30am

Queen Elizabeth Park, near the intersection of Matai Rd and Poplar Ave, Raumati

Raumati South Residents Association

The RSRA have received DOC funding to restore a rare type of wetland area. Live music and a fun event for all the family. To be held rain or shine.

Saturday 29 May from 9am

Waikanae Estuary, Manly St entrance, Paraparaumu

Waikanae Estuary Care Group

Get your feet dirty, plant some native trees and have fun. Planting, morning tea, estuary walk and talk tour, BBQ and prize draw.

Saturday 29 May from 9am

Otaki River Estuary, Kapiti Lane, Otaki

Friends of the Otaki River

Bring your own spade but holes will be pre-dug for people and morning tea will be provided.

For more information on wetlands:

http://www.teara.govt.nz/en/wetlands

http://www.doc.govt.nz/conservation/land-and-freshwater/wetlands/

http://www.gw.govt.nz/a-beginner-s-guide-to-wetland-restoration/