Akaroa Dolphins to sponsor reforestation project

Akaroa Dolphins were so inspired by a reforestation project between Akaroa Area School and the Department of Conservation that they have pledged to be sponsors for the next five years. 

The partnership between the school and the Department of Conversation will see them become the kaitiaki (guardians) of the Hammond Point (Te Umu te Rehua) reserve. This one hectare reserve is the small finger of land between Takamatua and Robinsons Bay.

With the help of awesome fencer Mark le Lievre, the Year 13 Te Arawhiti (Leadership and Lifeskills) class erected a fence to stop sheep, cattle, hares and rabbits from getting into the reserve. They entered a competition run by Living Streams Nursery in Little River and won $500 of native trees.

They have a comprehensive planting plan from the Hinewai legend, Hugh Wilson, and have already planted their first 20 trees.

Akaroa Dolphins' Julia Waghorn says:

"We are so proud of the students and teachers, including Garry Brittenden at Akaroa Area School, for the work they have done and will be doing for the reforestation project at Te Umu te Rehua/Hammond Point. 

We have chosen to provide sponsorship for the next five years as it is very much in line with our company's values of giving back to our local community as well as enhancing the environment through conservation, research & education.

In June we began offering our guests the opportunity to make a donation toward this reforestation project, which also helps mitigate the carbon emissions produced by our experience.

This is a great project, not only for our guests to see first-hand and to learn about while on our cruise but also for the students and future generations."

This story is part of TIA's #TourismChampions campaign. View more inspirational stories here.