you’ to our volunteers across the rohe

Across the rohe (region) thousands of dedicated volunteers give their time freely to care for the environment.

Last year 57,105 native dune plants were planted along the Bay of Plenty coast thanks to 3107 local volunteers as part of the Coast Care restoration programme alone.

“While the work of community organised care groups transforming nearby reserves, rivers, estuaries, and bush is vital for local biodiversity and ecosystems. It’s also a wonderful way to make friends while making a di erence,” says Coastal Catchments team leader Charles Harley.

Bay of Plenty Regional Council works with more than 70 care groups across the region, providing support, technical advice, and funding.

Last year $500,000 was awarded to care groups to deliver on environmental projects, recognising the enthusiasm, knowledge and diverse skill sets of locals to create real change.

Last year 57,105 native dune plants were planted along the coast thanks to 3107 local volunteers as part of the Coast Care programme.

Volunteer groups start with a few passionate people putting their environmental concerns into action, from trapping pests to planting native trees, and grow to become established care groups. While they often y under the radar, we all get to enjoy the bene ts of their work. is National Volunteer Week thank a volunteer; or better still join a care group near you. Learn more about volunteer opportunities in our region by visiting: www.boprc.govt.nz

Want to start a new care group or join an existing one?

Call: 0800 884 880 or email: caregroups@boprc.govt.nz

Volunteers ensure safe and licensed youth on roads

Sometimes, it’s the little things that bring the greatest satisfaction – like knowing you made a di erence.

“It feels great when you get a text from your young driver to let you know they have nally passed their test,” says Blue Light driver navigator Graham Young, commenting on the bene ts of volunteering for Blue Light.

“I’m always willing and happy to help those who need the assistance and practice.”

Blue Light’s driver licensing programme relies on the assistance of volunteers, such as Graham, to help young people gain the valuable time and experience required to become safe drivers on our roads and to pass their restricted licence.

“As the young driver gains more con dence and improves, we will drive further; and as they are nearing ready to sit their restricted test I have taken some young people as far as the Kaimai Range and to Te Puke, so they gain more experience on open roads,” says Graham.

Blue Light, a not-for-pro t charity, relies on the generous time and dedication of