Working hard to restore Bell's Track in the rain
Following a successful quiz for the Clarion Tour team “Horse!”, Young Labour members woke to the ominous pitter-patter of rain hitting the roof. On the agenda for the day was helping the Rainbow Gardeners on Bell’s Track at Mt Kaukau to restore the walking track.
Luke and Rory get down and dirty chopping back gorse in the rain
The team of eleven Young Labour members worked with Des from Rainbow Gardeners to clear ground, remove weeds, and spread mulch to support the growth of native plants. Bell’s Track is part of only five percent of forests left in Wellington after settlers used the timber and burned the remaining land. The ground left behind was deprived of nutrients and much work is needed to help the bush recover. Rainbow gardeners provided some morning tea and Des had some interesting information about the native flora and fauna. We enjoyed talking with Des as the clouds thickened.
Bush restoration crew pose for a group photo
After getting soaked to the bone it was time to get a warm lunch courtesy of Annette King. The group sat down and took stock of the journey so far. A few preparations and it was time to load up the van and drive it onto the ferry for the ride to Picton. With strong winds, continuing rain, and a gale warning there was a little apprehension as we boarded the boat. However, the new Clarion Tour team (with some members having left in Wellington and others joined) was excited to continue the tour and community work in the South Island.