Baywatch HB Press Release

10 May 2006

Baywatch HB Calls for More Protection of Earth, Water and Air

A call to be more vigilant in protecting land, water, air quality was heard on the weekend by a newly formed local environment group ‘Baywatch HB’ at Waimarama Beach Marae.

Baywatch’s concerns were highlighted by local kaumatua Robert MacDonald who spoke of how a substantial river he played in as a boy had almost shrunk to nothing, grieving the people of the area, who have a strong spiritual connection with the land.

Twenty five members of newly formed Baywatch HB Environment Group took part in an overnight hui at Waimarama Marae on the weekend to crystallise its vision for the future of the region.

Participants represented a range of organisations including Forest and Bird, Cape Kidnappers Protection Society and Sustaining HB Trust.

Baywatch, also known as Nga Kaitiaki O Nga Taonga of Tuku Iho, promotes creative guardianship of the environment to ensure ecological integrity and sustain humanity.
It gives encouragement and support on environmental matters, promotes awareness and knowledge and brings together those interested in environmental issues.

Currently Baywatch is working on the list of Long Term Council Community Plans (LTCCP’s) which are due shortly. It encourages individuals and organisations to make submissions to their local bodies as these will affect policy for the next ten years.

Spokesperson Liz Remmerswaal says the group is passionate about enhancing the environment and plans to make a difference in the region.

“There is a growing feeling we can no longer rest on our laurels in New Zealand and that we need to take a lot more care of planet earth if we wish to survive. However we are not at all ‘doom and gloom’ merchants and we to have fun together and are optimistic and hopeful. What we all share here is a concern for how we leave things for our future generations and this affects everyone.”

ENDS

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