First Few Days of Work

This morning we went to I’ Anson Reserve to learn about some of the native plants in New Zealand as an introduction to the work we will be doing. There are many species that have been introduced to New Zealand by European settlers that are taking over native species. Other species were brought in to fix the original problem but have actually created different problems. Our job is to get rid of this invasive species without causing more damage. Next, we headed to Linnley Park to weed. They are currently developing and we are working to counterbalance the effects is having on the area. Surprisingly, it is actually fun. The weather is crazy here; it was beautiful all day, but started hailing right before we left.

Tuesday we went to Haiku Park. There has been flooding in this are and many trees and plans were ruined. Erosion is a huge problem in New Zealand due to the excessive rain. To counteract this, they plant native trees on river banks so that the roots hold the ground in during storms. Our group began weeding, but changed to building a path in the afternoon. We have discussions each night with our groups of about 11. I was not too excited about going before, but they are actually educational but still interesting to learn about. Tonight we talked about Martha's mine, a disputed issue in New Zealand. There gold mining company wants to expand, but it is damaging the environment. The government is working to turn the gigantic hole into a lake and park to counteract the damage that has been done so that the livelihood of the local people can survive.

Today was my favorite day so far. We went to Tauhu National Park. Previous ISV groups have been working here so we continued where they have left off. We were digging a drainage ditch on the side of the trail so that rain will not ruin the existing path. We were in the "bush" was so beautiful. It was hard work but I as so content outside just digging in this beautiful area. We also cleared brush from the pre=existing ditch so that it would clog. After working all day we walked up to a Kauri tree. It takes 18 people holding hands in a circle to fit around the biggest Kauri tree: they grow slow but strong. This tree was heavily logged because the wood is extremely strong; it is now heavily protected. Daryl, out project leader, told us about the story of creation (according to Maori). New Zealand is so beautiful and different than anything I have seen before.