The diverse mix of mataī, kahikatea, totara, kōwhai, harkeke, makomako and other native plants that were planted will attract more birds to campus and provide food for them.
The schoolchildren also placed tree disks on the lawn so they can see which bugs take up residence underneath.
The day before the planting, Arthur talked to the schoolchildren about the importance of native trees and shrubs and was impressed with their knowledge. The university planting day was part of nature and science modules the children are studying this year.
“Teachers were really happy to see the kids out having such a good time planting and adding to their knowledge through hands-on experience,” Arthur says.
Ilam Primary School teacher Nigel Marsh described it as a wonderful learning opportunity for the children. “They were so proud of themselves.”
“I thought the session was a lot more than just a planting session. The connection that our students made with the UC students was priceless.”
The planting was funded by The Christchurch West Melton Water Management Zone Committee and connects to previous planting on UC’s Ilam campus as part of the university’s aim to increase natural habitats for native birds, lizards and insects on the UC grounds.
