Working together to support an “Our Patch Approach”

By Frances Hancock

It’s truly amazing what 25 Mangere Bridge volunteers can achieve in a two-hour community working bee on the Manukau Harbour. Fantastic teamwork, a sense of humour, and a determined attitude cleared the little bay near the old Mangere Bridge of 28 bags of mangrove seedlings! It was a great workout slushing through the mud; everyone was exhausted and hugely satisfied at the end!

Again we had fantastic support from Ambury Park Farm Ranger, Janine, and Farm volunteer, Darren. Community leader, 91 year old Bill Kirk, brought water to wash down volunteers and provide us all with a drink. Bill was despatched to buy more bags because we exceeded expectations for what could be achieved. Jacqui, a resident, took photographs to record the impact of our efforts, and Meredith, who lives near the bay, spread the word.

This year a huge proliferation of mangrove seedlings along the Esplanade has caused concern among locals. To maintain harbour views and access, Mangere Bridge Residents and Ratepayers Association has led community action to remove mangrove seedlings over many years. But the problem persists due to the accelerating growth of mangrove trees in the upper harbour. The Mangere-Otahuhu Local Board is showing leadership by funding mangrove removal east of the new bridge. Manukau Harbour Restoration Society is also committed to tackling the problem.

But west of the old bridge is for locals to manage. Brian Pilkington (MBRnR Secretary) and I organise annual working bees and this time we tried an “Our Patch” approach. Rather than advertising far and wide, we invited residents who live near the bay to join forces with other volunteers. This approach encourages people who enjoy harbour views every day to share guardianship of the harbour’s wellbeing. Of the 25 volunteers, over a third either live opposite the bay or in neighbouring streets. It’s a terrific way to build a sense of community among neighbours.

In planning this event, we met Mark Read, a newly appointed Auckland Council Volunteer and Biodiversity Coordinator. Mark’s job is to support groups like ours, by providing helpful advice and practical assistance. A respectful and experienced professional, Mark visited Mangere Bridge to get to know us, learn about local efforts to care for our environment, and enjoy a guided tour of the area. To avoid problems and ensure safety for volunteers, we agreed it’s important to work within existing regulations. Mark arranged for Council contractors to collect the bags and gave us gloves.

Another mangrove working bee is planned for Saturday 23 May 2015. This time we’re calling all our community volunteers and Kiwi Esplanade residents to remove seedlings at Shelly Bay (by the Mangere Boating Club and the children’s playground) and surrounding areas. This Council-supported working bee will take place rain or shine, from 9am-11.30am.  If you have them, bring gardening gloves and a bucket, and wear footwear that won't get stuck in the mud sneakers or wet booties). 

A big thank you to everyone who supported the working bee in the bay. It’s always great to meet locals and work together with Council to care for the Harbour. If you visit the bay you, too, will be amazed by what a small group of volunteers can achieve.