Our urban setting means we have many factors to consider when looking out for the environment, from carbon emissions and waste to flooding and pests. Be inspired by these four hardworking community groups and organisations which are supported by Waitematā Local Board. See how you can make a difference to the environment by joining them or making use of their services!
1. From the Deck
Giving Middleton Stream a helping hand to improve water quality
This community group removes rubbish and debris from Newmarket’s Middleton Stream, which would otherwise block the stream or end up polluting the ocean. Middleton Stream feeds into Hobson Bay, and they want our harbour to keep sparkling! The group has also planted thousands of native trees in the past eight years and carries out pest and weed control. Their goal is to unite the community in working together to clean the stream and create an oasis of bird and plant life in the city.
How can you get involved? Email Penny Hansen to enquire about joining volunteer efforts for the restoration of Middleton Stream.
Urban Ark - Manawa Taiao
2. Urban Ark – Manawa Taiao
Enabling community to come together and help reduce pests
Urban Ark – Manawa Taiao supports community groups dedicated to improving the native biodiversity of the Tāmaki Makaurau central isthmus. Many of these groups focus on trapping pest mammals – mainly rats, possums and stoats – in people’s back gardens, though there are also groups working in local reserves. Other groups concentrate on removing pest weeds and planting native species.
How can you get involved? Check out the Urban Ark – Manawa Taiao website to see volunteering opportunities with trap lines and weed control close to you.
3. Bike Hubs
Getting more people on bikes
There are two EcoMatters Bike Hubs in the area supported by the local board. Run by staff and volunteers, they offer free advice and access to tools so you can do your own basic maintenance and keep your bike roadworthy. They also loan e-bikes and sell decently priced second-hand bikes of all sizes if you’re short on wheels. To top it off they can even recommend cycle paths and routes depending on your preferences and ability.
How can you get involved? Head over to Queen’s Wharf or Grey Lynn Park to get help fixing your bike (check opening hours on the EcoMatters website). Or if you’ve been wondering whether to take hold of the handlebars and invest in an e-bike, why not try before you buy with a free, two-week Go Ebike Loan?
Queen's Wharf Bike Hub
4. Waiōrea Community Recycling Centre
Encouraging reuse and recycling to reduce landfill waste
The community recycling centre (CRC) in Western Springs accepts drop-offs of many inorganic items. Some items are free to drop off if they can be resold, otherwise charges may apply. They also run free workshops and programmes upstairs in their Education Hub. And did you know there’s a curated shop there for all your second-hand needs?
How can you get involved? Come in and buy second-hand goods and quality pre-loved fashion to support the CRC and embrace sustainable living. Open Thursday to Sunday: 9am to 4pm (except public holidays) at 990 Great North Road, Western Springs.