Bay of Plentyians have a great opportunity to contribute to local conservation initiatives and help protect the Bay's natural environment, says BOP MP Todd Muller.

Conservation week starts today and Todd says the national awareness campaign enables children, parents, schools and communities to get involved with local conservation efforts.

With Conservation Week now upon us, Bay of Plenty MP Todd Muller hopes all locals will get involved with a number of events taking place in the region to help protect the Bay's natural environment. File Photo.

'There are over 100 activities taking place throughout the country as part of the week. These events build on the Department of Conservation's Healthy Nature, Healthy People theme, as spending time in nature has been shown to improve mental and physical wellbeing,” says Todd.

'Research shows children who connect with nature are more likely to want to save it in the future, so I urge parents around the region to take their young ones to local events and give them a chance to contribute to the local environment.”

Dune planting on two of the Bay's busiest beaches, dog training, nature walks, working bees and colouring competitions are just some of the fantastic events on offer for free in the region this week.

Todd says everyone has a role to play in protecting nature and promoting conservation, and the National-led Government believes supporting community conservation efforts is a great way to strengthen Kiwis' bond with nature.

'We launched the $26 million DOC Community Fund, and forged commercial partners worth $80 million for conservation groups over the last five years.

'Conservation week is also a great opportunity for locals to contribute to Government initiatives such as Predator Free 2050, Battle for Our Birds 2016, the War on Weeds and other vital programmes,” says Todd.

For more information about Conservation Week and for a full list of events taking place in the Bay visit: www.doc.govt.nz/conservationweek

Bay of Plenty MP Todd Muller. File Photo