750 Native Plants Added to the Dunes Trail in Coastal Restoration Push

To kick off the new month, 47 local volunteers gathered for the first Dunes Trail Planting Day of 2025.

Thanks to the record turnout, the group successfully planted 750 native trees and shrubs in just one hour, marking a strong start to this year’s restoration efforts.

Volunteers made their way on foot or by bike along the trail to the end of Wairakaia Road, where the planting took place.

Due to the harsh and unpredictable coastal conditions, plants were positioned strategically to ensure long-term survival and ecological impact.

Harakeke was planted closest to the shoreline, followed by Karo and Ngaio, with Ti Kouka further inland. In the most sheltered spots, Houpara was planted to complete the layered planting approach.

The site will now be left undisturbed for the first few years to allow the plants to establish strong root systems and support a healthy dune environment. These efforts not only fight coastal erosion but also help create habitats for native species.

Due to growing community interest, a second planting day is scheduled for Sunday, June 15.

Organizers encourage everyone to take part, regardless of prior planting experience. Since 2014, more than 30,000 trees have been planted along the Dunes Trail thanks to the ongoing support of Eastern Bay locals.