During the last 30 years, approximately 29,975 volunteers have given nearly 66,880 hours to helping protect and restore some of the country’s most iconic beaches through the Coast Care programme. 

Coast Care is a partnership programme between regional council, the four coastal district and city councils – Western Bay of Plenty, Tauranga, Ōpōtiki and Whakatāne – and Department of Conservation to ensure the Bay of Plenty coastline can continue to thrive. 

Powered by local volunteers, the programme includes regular community events, such as planting native dune plants, managing the spread of weeds and pests, collecting native seeds and more.  

Coast Care regional coordinator Rusty Knutson says it’s through the efforts of the Coast Care volunteers that we can collectively help keep the dunes in good condition, and continue supporting the lives and livelihoods of Bay of Plenty communities.  

“We’re incredibly grateful for the collective volunteer hours that have been invested into this programme to help make it the success it is today.  

“As well as digging in and doing something good for your local beach, there’s a feel good social element that comes from these events with like-minded people getting together.” 

To celebrate 30 years, Coast Care is hosting a series of events during Volunteer Week to say a big ‘thank you’ and ngā mihi to the communities and volunteers who have given their time and energy over the years to help protect and restore the Bay of Plenty coastline.  

All are welcome! To find an event near you, visit the Coast Care Facebook page: www.facebook.com/CoastCareBayofPlenty/events