Our vision is simple — a restored, thriving Vaughan’s Stream and surrounding landscape.
Our focus is on three key pillars of restoration: water quality, pest animals, and pest plants.
“There’s something incredibly rewarding (and slightly addictive!) about clearing invasive plants and seeing the difference almost immediately.” Dick Downing
So far, our focus has been along the stream corridor and around stormwater ponds — creating a weed and pest-free buffer to help protect the taonga that is Long Bay Regional Park.
Looking ahead, we’re excited to expand into other parts of Long Bay, including some special pockets of bush on private land.
Over the past few months, volunteers have been tackling pampas, woolly nightshade, blackberry, bottle brush, gorse and lots of others!
“It’s the people who show up — whether every month or just occasionally — who are bringing this vision to life. And it’s such a lot of fun along the way.” Dick Downing
It’s great being out in nature meeting some cool neighbours, learning about our precious environment and getting ourselves a free workout.
The difference a few people can make is huge – birds are already coming back, and weeds along the stream are getting much harder to spot.
But it’s not just about the work. For many of us, it’s about connection. Meeting like-minded people, sharing stories, and spending time outdoors. There’s something grounding about it — you leave feeling energised, grateful, and part of something bigger.
Together, we’re creating a space for people to reconnect with the whenua, with each other, and with a shared vision of a thriving, regenerative Long Bay.
“I find the monthly working bee is a great start to my day and I always come away feeling energised, grateful, and grounded because of the people I’m surrounded by and the conversations we have.” Dick Downing
Supported by Restore Hibiscus & Bay, Long Bay Residents Association and Hibiscus & Bays Local Board this is truly community-powered restoration.
Come along and give it a go — you might just get hooked.
