Proudly sponsored by Nelson Auto Glass Specialists
Every Friday morning, while many people are heading into work or planning their weekend, a small group of volunteers is already out making Nelson's parks a little brighter.
The 'Bark in the Park' initiative, run by Live Life Disability Support, has been caring for local reserves for decades. Armed with rakes and plenty of enthusiasm, five volunteers spend their Fridays spreading bark through parks including Branford Park in the Maitai Valley, Tahunanui beach, Neale Park, Brook Valley and Saxton Field, helping keep pathways and play areas tidy for everyone to enjoy.
Their efforts have earned them a Local Legend nomination from the Nelson Tasman Disc Golf community, whose members regularly play on the courses that wind through the parks. "They're a wee crew that goes around some of the parks, including Branford, and moves the bark around," the nomination read. "It's great to see the difference they make."
For organisers Oliver Williams and Sheridan Brown, who have supported the group for the several years, the weekly outings are about far more than park maintenance.
"The team really enjoys the role," says Oliver. "Every Friday we meet up and see what needs doing around the place. It gives them a real sense of direction and achievement, and they feel like a valued part of the community."
While many park visitors may never know who has carefully raked the bark beneath their feet, the volunteers don't do it for recognition. They simply enjoy giving back. For the volunteers, it's a chance to get outdoors, work together and contribute to something the whole community enjoys. Every Friday, they leave the parks looking a little better than they found them, a contribution that's earned them the title of Local Legends.
