Sustainable backyards for city Find out more about the environment
If you’ve ever wanted to learn how to set up a worm farm, learn about ecological restoration or see how birds are rescued in Hawke’s Bay then you are in for a treat.
Sustainable Backyards is a month-long programme that highlights, celebrates and supports the range of environmental initiatives run by individuals and community organisations throughout Hawke’s Bay, says programme coordinator Jake Brookie.
The programme is organised by the Environment Centre Hawke’s Bay, with 38 events now part of Sustainable Backyards 2018.
“Community collaboration increases our collective impact for the environment,” says Environment Centre manager Marielle Haringa, who brought Sustainable Backyards to Hawke’s Bay.
Sustainable Backyard’s mission is to connect people with the environment and inspire them to learn more about it.
There are also plenty of opportunities to learn how to live sustainably by adopting alternatives to plastics and disposable products.
Some events will be held at the Environment Centre’s new premises at 1004 Karamu Road, Hastings.
“Our new centre provides the venue for community groups to showcase their work,” Marielle says.
Events running in Napier include a tour of Ahuriri Estuary’s Southern Marsh, an interactive discussion about plastic at the MTG with artist George Nuku, events by the National Aquarium of New Zealand and presentations about sustainable business with the Hawke’s Bay Chamber of Commerce.
Jake says he is extremely pleased with the range of events and excited about Sustainable Backyards coming to Hawke’s Bay.
“Sustainable Backyards has been held in New Zealand for more than 10 years. It’s fantastic to be involved with bringing it here to Hawke’s Bay,” he says.
There are events for all ages and abilities, ranging from walks and tours, workshops and discussions as well as broadcasts on Radio Kidnappers.
The Environment Centre thanked Hastings District Council and Hawke’s Bay Regional Council for funding this event and individuals and organisations who have hosted
‘Community collaboration increases our collective impact for ’ the environment. MARIELLE HARINGA, Environment Centre manager
an event for Sustainable Backyards.
“Visit the Environment Centre’s website and Facebook for more information or visit the Environment Centre, local library or council office to get a programme,” Jake says.