Taupo’s waterfront tackled by #CleanNZ
Taupo’s lake front was the latest target of a new initiative set to create a cultural shift in New Zealand, from one of littering to cleaning.
Over 20 volunteers, including a large contingent from the Facebook group Kiwi Daddys, donned gloves and picked up litter around the edge of Lake Taupo last weekend as part of #CleanNZ.
#CleanNZ Founder, Kiri Danielle, also travelled to Taupo to support local efforts along with the Kiwi Daddys.
‘‘The Kiwi Daddys have over 55,000 members all around the world,’’ Danielle said. ’’They have given me the support I’ve needed for years. They have essentially put my work on steroids and I am so very grateful.’’
Danielle said New Zealand needs a cultural shift when it comes to the issue of littering.
‘‘We have made such a mess of our environment and some of us just keep doing it,’’ she said.
‘‘However, I absolutely believe it is reversible, and all it takes are some good sorts to get out, roll up their sleeves, take positive action and set a better example. We have an extraordinary beautiful country and we should be appreciating it more.’’
The group was joined by local litter abatement campaigner Carol Lamb, herself a Taupo resident, with over 30 years dedication to picking up trash scattered along the roadway.
A keen cyclist, Lamb, has picked up so much rubbish over 700 kilos of litter to be exact since January this year
‘‘I’ve been cleaning up for a very long time, but it’s just getting worse,’’ Lamb said. ’’It gets very disheartening when I’ve cleaned an area and the next day I return only to find the litter has returned too.’’
Lamb has documented her efforts, taking photos and weighing her haul, but has struggled to find the support she needs to really make a difference.
The ‘Clean Up Crew’ started their day at Wharewaka Bay on Sunday and moved around the lake edge until finishing at the mouth of the Waikato river.
Danielle said she has been chipping away at the front of a dam for seven years, and the Kiwi Daddys had finally helped the first major crack appear.
‘‘This work is being seen around the world ,’’ she said.
‘‘It was awe inspiring to see the ripple effects of what we are doing in New Zealand travelling around the globe.’’
Danielle said one of the most inspiring sights on the day was Kiwi Daddy Eru Tukaki, helping to pick up rubbish – from his wheelchair.
‘‘When so many of us are able bodied and step right over litter, to see this man out doing what he can was so inspiring. It actually made my heart well up and tears come to my eyes,’’ Danielle said.
If you would like to join the movement, you can email Kiri at kiridanielle@gmail.com – or find her on Facebook.