The Nelson Tree Planters

Making Nelson beautiful for more than 20 years

Volunteer today!

Volunteers of all fitness and skill levels are invited to join the Nelson Tree Planters. Members meet Thursday mornings from 9am to 12pm, although you don't have to commit every week. And you don't need to be an expert, training is provided! Read on for more information and how to get involved.

How it got started

The Nelson Tree Planters has been going for about 20 years, changing over time in looks and structure. It first started as a small group, helping children to get involved in 'planting up' Nelson - this still continues today with all the schools in Nelson. The Nelson Tree Planters are now an integral part of Nelson City Council's 'Parks' Department.

Why do people join the tree planters?

It is a good way to get to know Nelson, take part in environmental projects that have been developing for years, meet new people and take part in your local community. About 35 people are in the group but normally 10 to 15 people turn up on any one morning. They meet every Thursday morning (from 9am to 12 noon) starting in March, generally finishing after helping with the hanging baskets in October.

What the tree planters do

Currently every second week is spent at the Council Nursery helping the staff with anything from seed cleaning to potting up and weeding. Every other week is spent planting on site somewhere in Nelson. This year the group will be concentrating on Tahuna Beach, Paremata Flats, the Brook campsite and, of course, finishing with the hanging baskets.

There is never any obligation to come along each week or even for the entire length of time each Thursday - it is entirely voluntary but always incredibly helpful!

Find out more

For more information, call Mike Gafa on +64 3 546 0296 or just turn up at the Nursery (on Atawhai Drive next to Miyazu Park) at 9am on a Thursday.