Greenfund and members helping restore wetland alongside NZMCA Park

Initially set up specifically to fund tree planting, the Board recently accepted a recommendation that the Greenfund should provide financial support for grassroots environmental and conservation projects that appeal to NZMCA members and offer opportunities for participation.

Those are boxes that FOTSC’s project definitely ticks because the southern part of the Taupo Swamp complex – one of the last remaining wetlands of its type in the lower North Island – borders the NZMCA’s Plimmerton Park. “So, not only do visitors to the area get to enjoy the great cafes in Plimmerton Village, the excellent train service into Wellington City and the convenience of being able to park up and go out for the day on foot, but also to enjoy camping right next to a local restoration project in which NZMCA has an active role,” says Judy McKoy, of FOTSC.

Set up to advocate for the special Taupo Swamp wetland and its catchment in any way it can, one of FOTSC’s projects is the five-year restoration of the southern part of the Taupo Swamp. Judy says: “Much clearing of invasive weeds has already taken place, and our group is ready to start planting what will be the first of thousands of native trees over the next few years.

“FOTSC is very grateful for the inaugural grant of $2000 from NZMCA’s Greenfund – this will pay for some 400 trees which will grow to enhance the area campers look out onto on the south side of the Plimmerton Park. “Members will have the opportunity to become involved in clearing, weeding and planting over the next months and years – the local Area Committee will keep members up to date with any planned work days.” Keen to know more? Have a look at the Friends of Taupo Swamp and Catchment website www.tauposwamp.org

Meanwhile, NZMCA members are invited to help look for suitable applicants for funding from Greenfund. NZMCA National Policy & Planning Manager, James Imlach, says: “The fund is intended to help protect and enhance New Zealand’s natural environment, flora and fauna, by supporting localised projects coordinated by community groups, NZMCA Areas, local authorities and government departments, e.g. the Department of Conservation.”