Councillors join community for waste reduction lessons
November 22, 2005

North Shore City residents joined councillors this month to learn more about waste reduction at the first WasteWise Neighbours workshop - and the local environment is already better off for it.

The council has donated 17 native trees to the Kaipatiki Project in Birkdale - one for each of the residents from all over the city who attended the Takapuna workshop.

The full-day course included a variety of 'hands-on' lessons, a 'smart shopping' session, an open forum on waste issues, and a visit to the city's own 'Create Your Own Eden' demonstration garden site, where composting techniques were demonstrated.

Those taking part were joined by Deputy Mayor, Dianne Hale, and Councillor Peter White.

"It was great to see so many interested people attending and participating. Not only have they learned new ways to reduce waste, but hopefully they will spread the word to friends and family," says Mr White.

Northcote residents Vivienne and Brett Allott brought their four children along and found the workshop enjoyable and useful.

"The kids had a great time and my nine-year-old has already presented a project to his class. The worm farming was particularly interesting, and we'll be attending another event, to learn more, later in the year," says Vivienne.

So popular was the first event that the council is already organising another for next year. It is also considering adapting the course to shorter sessions, and making it available to community groups on request.

The WasteWise Neighbours workshop is part of the council's community volunteer programme. This brings together residents throughout the city, committed to practising and promoting waste reduction at home and in the community. Members are kept informed through newsletters and emails, yearly meetings, and now neighbourhood workshops.

Anyone wishing to enrol for the next WasteWise Neighbours course or join the community volunteer network should contact Actionline on 486 8600 and ask to speak to the community waste prevention officer.

ENDS

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