Helpers are needed to lend a hand at five Mōkihi Reforestation Trust (MRT) community planting sessions at keystone sites this autumn. 

Four sessions are at Stuart Ferry, a site previously covered in wilding pines, and one session at the 45th Parallel.

Organisers said volunteers need to bring a hat, gloves, water, good footwear, a shovel, along with friends, family and enthusiasm. After the morning’s work, morning tea will be provided.

Stuart Ferry is a visible site opposite Pearson Rd and before the Bannockburn bridge which is utilised by people on the cycleway. Planting started at Stuart Ferry in 2020. 

The dates are May 4 and 25, June 22 and July 20, at 10am - 12noon. The working bee at the 45th Parallel is on August 17. 

Volunteers at a previous community planting day. PHOTO: Jane Powe

At the 45th Parallel site, planted in 2018 and 2019, rabbit nets have protected most of the 650 plants. There are dryland shrubs and grasses, mountain flax and trees and the cycle trail goes alongside the plantings. 

Along with Stuart Ferry and the 45th Parallel site, the third keystone MRT site is Richards Beach, it was planted in 2016 and there are more than 3000 plants at the site. 

MRT aims to restore and establish pockets of indigenous biodiversity in Cromwell and surrounding areas, and in particular the Lake Dunstan shoreline.

For more information about MRT see the group’s website.