Onslow students, whanau and teachers tore into weeds to release young forest plants in two recent working bees. The teams did their mahi in the forest restoration area next to the Waipahīhī Stream at Onslow College on the 17th and 25th February.
Dozens of young rakau, wharariki flax and tussock were liberated from the smothering effects of invasive weeds. Tūī, riroriro, pīwakawaka and tauhou regularly make use of the regenerating forest, affirming the biodiversity goals of the project. The growing ngahere is also used by students and teachers as part of Onslow’s curriculum across a range of learning areas. Year 9 Science students use the forest while learning to measure and assess ecological communities and in developing their value of kaitiakitanga for te taiao.
More working bees are planned for weekends in autumn so keep an eye out for information on dates and details if you would like to be involved later this year.