LPC’s Richard Cookson has been weeding and planting at the Lyttelton Port Saddle for the last four years.

He says the gorse especially needs to be cleared out to give the native plants a chance.

“Staying on top of the fairly aggressive weeds like gorse and broom and some of the other legumes, they grow far more quickly than natives,” says Richard.

Lyttelton Port Company volunteers on the Port Saddle. Photo/LPC

Richard has volunteered over the last four years at three native planting and weeding days.

“I get a lot of enjoyment getting up on the Port Saddle and seeing what is growing and the efforts our employees make to get them started,” says Richard.

“It’s not just for the company; it’s for the Lyttelton community as well.”

The Port Saddle is LPC’s restoration site overlooking Whakaraupo Lyttleton Harbour.

Since 2017, LPC has worked with the Banks Peninsula Conservation Trust to restore the site by planting over 4,600 native trees.

“It’s good to go up there and wander through it and see it’s starting to develop a canopy,” says Richard.

Twice a year staff give a few hours of their time to help the environmental project.

“Experience it, volunteer a few hours planting and weeding,”he added.

“We are leaving a legacy for future generations.”