Laid out in front of us were thousands of native trees ready to be planted.

The ground was hard and digging holes was a challenge.  However the Silverdale Normal School students worked together, helped each other out and were willing to take advice on board.  Successfully they managed to be part of a huge team, leaving a sea of natives for future growth.  Thanks to all the parents who supported and helped our students.

The annual Arbor Day planting at Waiwhakareke is a key date for this ambitious ecological restoration project. Launched in 2004, Arbor Day planting at Waiwhakareke has grown significantly.   It is the largest community planting day in the city.  Each year around 20,000 plants are planted as the Hamilton City Council works towards planting the remaining 34 hectares of Waiwhakareke in native species representing pre-European vegetation. The event goes ahead at this time each year rain or shine.