There is a little sign that points out where the Remembrance Grove path leaves the main walkway, and if you follow the path up there you will also find a seat made by one of the Landcare Okareka volunteers, for you to use while contemplating the area.
There is an RDC approved planting plan for the Remembrance Grove using five species of native trees – kowhai, rewarewa, titoki, rimu and totara. You can choose the species and siting of your tree from this plan.
At planting time, usually autumn/winter, at a time that suits, you will be provided with a good specimen of tree to plant from RDC Nursery. Landcare Okareka can assist in getting your tree out to the site, and even digging the hole for the tree. You will also be able to choose wording for the plaque, and Landcare Okareka will ensure this is made up, prior to planting time, and erected on site to mark your particular tree. A permanent record of the tree planting is also kept by RDC and Landcare Okareka. The cost for all this is $200, payable to RDC – this money also future proofs the tree, if anything should happen to it.
We have had recently two further trees planted in memory of some former Lake Okareka residents. Now is the time to be thinking about this—if you would like to carry out a planting for this winter.
If you are interested in planting a tree in the Remembrance Grove please contact Sandra Goodwin 362 8865 or send me an email sgoodwin@actrix.co.nz and I will provide you with the paper work to get your commemorative tree planting project underway.
Sandra Goodwin
LOCA Secretary