Restoring our ngahere is a central part of the work done by Urban Ark groups. This mahi aligns with Urban Ark’s strategy of enhancing wildlife corridors through central Tāmaki.
From May through to August, many groups undertake planting. Some of it is ‘pioneer planting’ on formerly grassy or barren areas: some is ‘enrichment planting’, adding species to enhance the biodiversity of established bush areas.
For the rest of the year the emphasis is on weeding. There are often enough seeds around for native species to propagate, if we just give them the space to do their thing.
Across the Urban Ark area there are regular restoration sessions, aka weeding bees. Many are looking for extra volunteer help. Here’s what you need to know:
- no experience is necessary: the atmosphere is inclusive and helpful, and group leaders will always find an experienced weeder to guide you
- you don’t have to commit to coming every week/month: just show up when you can. You are welcome to bring your favourite trowel, secateurs and gardening gloves, but groups usually have spares you can borrow
- dress for the job: strong shoes or boots, long pants and long sleeves are all sensible choices
- dress for the conditions: broad brimmed hat and sunscreen in summer, wet-weather gear if rain is likely
- bring a water bottle
- there are often refreshments at the end
- most groups take a break from mid-December to sometime in January
Wednesday
Wednesday Weed Warriors
Monthly: Third Wednesday 10am–noon. Urban Ark area
The Wednesday Weed Warriors are a roving band of passionate individuals led by our Restoration Advisor, Phil. The main focus is on preparing restoration sites for planting and ensuring that previously planted sites are maintained, so that natives survive and thrive. That means we might notify a session anywhere from Epsom to Lynfield, so check out our events calendar to see the location of upcoming weeding bees.
Saturday
Friends of Te Tātua a Riukiuta / Big King
Monthly: Last Saturday 9:30am–noon. Te Tātua a Riukiuta / Big King
Friends of Te Tātua a Riukiuta / Big King are a group of volunteers working alongside the Tūpuna Maunga Authority to restore some of the mauri (life force) lost from the maunga over the years. The focus is often on making sure young native plantings aren’t smothered by invasive weeds until they can thrive by themselves, but weeding happens all over the maunga and sometimes in bordering properties, with their permission. Fill out this quick form to get involved.
Sunday
Second Sunday Weeders
Monthly: Second Sunday 9am-11am. Pt Chevalier
Second Sunday Weeders are keen group of volunteers who meet at different reserves around the wider Pt Chevalier area to release vulnerable native plants from the smothering effects of invasive weeds. The current roster of sites includes Eric Armishaw Reserve, Walmer Reserve, Coyle Park and De Luen St headland. Check out the event calendar to see the location of upcoming weeding bees.