On 19th July 2026, BLIA South Island NZ conducted the 31st T-EARTH Tree Planting initiative in support Christchurch City Council and Trees for Canterbury. Led by BLIA South Island President James LOW and Subchapter 1 President Christine CHEN, along with 16 BLIA members volunteered at the Wilmers Road Conservation Reserve to support local environmental restoration.
Nearly 80 volunteers took part in the event, planting a total of 850 native seedlings, including a variety of climbing plants. Before planting began, Park Ranger Andrew Christie introduced the conservation project and explained that the reserve is one of Christchurch’s few remaining dryland ecosystems. The native species being planted will help restore the natural habitat and provide shelter for local wildlife, including geckos.
Andrew Christie noted that while native plants grow slowly, they are well adapted to New Zealand’s climate. As the site was once a riverbed, the rocky ground made planting physically challenging. He thanked all the volunteers for their hard work and contribution to the restoration project.
Christine CHEN shared that BLIA members were grateful for the opportunity to serve the community through environmental conservation. She noted that planting trees is not only a way to care for nature but also to cultivate compassion and responsibility for future generations. Participants look forward to seeing the reserve continue to grow and thrive in the years ahead.
