News Release
Wednesday 15 October 2014

Free bus tour celebrates Rotorua’s community gardens

Rotorua district Council is offering the chance for Rotorua residents to celebrate some of the city’s community gardens, with a free guided bus tour.

The tour, on Saturday 1 November, will visit five community gardens including a small suburban garden on private land, a larger rural garden, council reserve gardens and a youth garden.

Rotorua District Council’s Sustainable Living portfolio lead, Councillor Janet Wepa, said she loves that the community gets behind community gardening.

“The benefits from these gardens to our wider community are huge. As well as beautifying areas they offer a sense of community, and provide opportunities for skills development and food provision.”

Council Sustainability Advisor and bus tour organiser, Monica Quirke, says the stops on the itinerary are more than just gardens but also learning experiences for everyone.

“Whether you’re an experienced gardener or a novice, or you simply want to learn more about community gardening, the tour offers a great opportunity to share ideas and expertise. We also want to celebrate and acknowledge the excellent work done by our community in setting up these gardens.”

The bus tour leaves the Rotorua Youth Centre at 6 Te Ngae Road at 8am on Saturday 1 November and returns at 4pm.

Participants need to bring suitable walking shoes and a raincoat or umbrella, lunch to share with other participants, seeds to share, and a gold coin for a cup of tea and scone.

Seats on the bus tour are limited and bookings are essential. To book a seat contact Rotorua District Council’s Customer Centre on 07 348 4199 or by email to monica.quirke@rdc.govt.nz

ENDS

© Scoop Media