FEEDING THE FUTURE
AS PART OF THEIR PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME AND THE CHIEFS IN THE COMMUNITY PROGRAMME FOR 2016 THE CHIEFS TOOK PART IN A PUBLIC TREE-PLANTING SESSION.
Forty players took part in the planting of two large sites to support a programme run by Pathway 1 Foundation. After the initial planting day was postponed due to extreme wet weather, the players got stuck in and mulched the site before planting a selection of fruit trees.
Apple, plum, pear and fig trees along with mandarin, orange and lemon trees were planted on the two large sites made possible through Fulton Hogan working with Transit New Zealand.
Super Rugby centurion Hika Elliot said, “It was a really good experience. It is going to be good for the community and was a great initiative that will constantly give back by providing something people can eat.”
The players learned to follow planting plans that were done by Bruntwood Nurseries. After planting the trees in terrible weather conditions, the players then shovelled 170 square metres of mulch.
The two sites have been designed to require twice yearly maintenance, which the Chiefs will carry out. The sites are located on the cycle path that runs along the new expressway running north from Hamilton Wintec on Avalon Drive.
Project leader and Pathway Foundation 1 founder David Galbraith said, “Both sites have come up really well. They are nice to look at and in time will be a wonderful resource for community.”
The vision of the planting is that children and families will be able to pick fruit when they are out walking as a family or on their way to school. In about five years’ time the trees will be laden with fruit.
Personal Development Manager Judy Clement said, “The exciting thing for me is that it will be around for years to come.”
The Pathway 1 Foundation provides opportunities for youth to unleash their greatness on the national and international stage in any area including sports, music, culture, academia or the arts. The foundation, which has trustees including David Galbraith, Wayne Smith and Laura Langman, is also committed to enhancing and preserving New Zealand’s natural beauty for all generations to come. For more info about the foundation visit: www.pathway1foundation.co.nz Business partners Preferential providers