Over 60 locals came together last month at the Parkvale Catchment Charitable Trust’s info evening and BBQ to learn about their catchment and how they can get involved.
The family-friendly event offered something for everyone: hearty food, warming mulled wine, trap-making with Predator Free Carterton, logo competition, spot prizes, and an opportunity to help shape the future of the catchment. Free traps were given out to help support predator control efforts in the area.
Posters on display told the story of Parkvale’s journey so far and the group’s action plan, which includes planting days, pest and weed control, fencing, water testing, and plenty of opportunities for community involvement.
One of the key aims of the evening was to gather feedback on the group’s vision statement - “Healthy water, land and people, growing together”—and invite ideas to help shape future mahi, including the design of a new community logo.
Catchment Group Coordinator, Lisa Stevenson was pleased with the turnout.
"It was heartening to have so many people come along to the event and have a genuine interest in the work the group has been doing and plan to do. We had some really good feedback and met a number of new-comers to the district. The trap making workshop was a real highlight."
With support from Greater Wellington, Wairarapa Catchment Collective, and Predator Free Carterton, the event was a celebration of what can happen when community, science, and shared purpose come together. Parkvale is showing what’s possible when locals lead the way - and the invitation is open to all who want to be part of the journey.
If you want to get involved, get in touch with the group coordinator Lisa Stevenson: parkvale007@gmail.com.
Learn more about the group at www.wairarapacc.nz/parkvale
