Ecologist Bruce MacKay is part of the team driving the Fairfield Project, a community-led initiative in Hamilton restoring the Kukutaaruhe Gully and strengthening environmental education. Working alongside Lynnette Rogers, he helps lead large-scale planting days, native seed collection, and the development of a new education centre and community garden.
“Fostering environmental education is central to our mahi,” says Bruce. “We’ve got community gardens, and this restoration project is all about educating kids about forests and how to plant – all those ordinary but important things.”
The project is supported by Waikato River Authority funding, which Bruce says is essential.
“We couldn’t do it otherwise. It helps us prepare, buy the plants, and bring in volunteers to do the planting.”
WRA Chief Executive Antoine Coffin says the project highlights the strength of community in action.
“It’s a real privilege to be funding the trees that will be here for generations. It’s wonderful to see whānau, hapū, and the community restoring the awa in practice.”
Aku mihi nui
