Eight years after the Gift of Green
By Jamie Melbourne-Hayward
Seventeen years ago the Gift of Green was launched in Petone, and the idea has seen over 800 native trees planted throughout the area. One local family?s roots are now firmly planted after both children received the gift. Both Patricia Stratton?s children, six-year-old Aimee and eight-year-old Tyler, received the Gift of Green as new-born babies. ?Tyler?s tree is a Lancewood and Aimee has a Pohutukawa, and both have gotten quite big. ?It gives us a deeper sense of attachment to the area,? she says. Keep Petone Beautiful organise the Gift of Green, with the support of Petone Rotary, and coordinator Roy Hewson says, ?We want to impress environmentalism on the children early on and have people grow trees in Petone?. The event symbolises new birth and gives a sense of stewardship to members of the community. ?800 trees have been planted to date all over the area and it?s looking greener from it already,? he says. Ms Stratton says the family?s attachment to the area means they would find it difficult to move. ?In terms of when we think of moving, we know there is something here we have helped grow ? and it makes moving hard.? There are not many festivals celebrating new birth and the sentiment behind the idea is greatly appreciated by parents,? says Ms Stratton. ?It?s about the nurturing of life, and harnessing trees to grow the area.? Although Ms Stratton?s family is surrounded by trees bordering Percy Scenic Reserve, she supports the goodwill ideals around greening the city. ?It?s very good for the environment, and there is a huge amount of potential for building community,? she says. Gift of Green offers a native tree or shrub to all babies born to Petone and Korokoro residents during the past year. The event is on August 9, 2-4pm in the Petone Town Centre, to apply contact Roy Hewson on 5686449, or pick up application forms from; Story Time Books for Kids at 211 Jackson Street, Petone Plunket and Playdays toyshop.
