Spade-dating on the Port Hills

Are you a keen conservationist looking for a like-minded friend?

Does the idea of Valentine’s Day make you want to head for the hills?

Conservation Volunteers New Zealand, Christchurch City Council and The Fermentist are proud to present Christchurch’s inaugural “spade-dating” event.

Join us in a romantic spot on the Port Hills to do some hand-releasing of Arbor Day plantings, followed by a picnic with a spectacular view over the Canterbury plains.

The work is half-treasure hunt as we rummage through long grasses searching for native plants that need to be cleared and given space to grow. You will be supporting the efforts of local schools that do annual tree planting for Arbor Day, as this work is essential for plant survival.

To strengthen the collaborative, social aspect of volunteering we will be working in small groups and our team leaders will be throwing out some conversation starters and teasers to help turn strangers into friends… or maybe more?

Refresh your soul with some volunteering to support the environment, then celebrate your efforts with some fancy nibbles in a spot picked for its 360 degree view of the city and surrounding Port Hills. For those that are feeling social, we will head downhill afterwards to The Fermentist for a drink - on the house - to celebrate your efforts.

Wear good sturdy shoes as we are working on a slope and dress for the weather. Gloves and tools will be provided.

This is an R18 event and places are limited.

Meet in the small car park behind the Victoria Park Information Centre at 5.45 pm. You will be met and guided to our working site, a short 10 minute walk away.

If the weather is bad we will postpone until Friday 15 February – notified by text or email; please provide this.

Email: parks.volunteers@ccc.govt.nz for more information.