The Henry Schein NZ team recently partnered with Kaipātiki Project, participating in a local tree planting initiative, planting 80 trees within Eskdale Reserve on the North Shore in Auckland. We had a variety of trees, shrubs and ground cover plants which will enable growth in vulnerable areas, and to support the banks and streams to protect wildlife and fish that reside in these reserves. With the amount of rainfall Auckland has had in the area, the soil was nice and damp and will allow the trees to establish and thrive in preparation for a warm summer ahead.
The team also ‘cleaned’ and restored an area of Harakeke/Flax, removing the older and dried leaves preserving the inner layers (in Maori culture the remaining inner layer represents the family -grandparents on the outside, parents and then child in the middle). We also prepared the area ready for mulching and protection. Harakeke is unique to New Zealand and is one of our most ancient plant species, being an important fibre plant for Maori culture with numerous uses including making clothing, mats, baskets, ropes, fishing lines and nets. The flax flowers and its nectar also attract native wildlife like Tui’s and Bellbirds.
We had a great morning out in the sunshine with the Kaipātiki Project Team. Kaipātiki Project, based on Auckland’s North is an innovative EcoHub, growing a sustainable future for people and nature. They do this by empowering people, inspiring connection with nature and enabling sustainable living. Along with having their regular volunteers, they also run a thriving native plant nursery, facilitate forest, stream & estuary regeneration, and promote zero waste and local food initiatives.
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