Although most people don't think of winter as beach weather, that's when Coast Care along and their army of keen locals, schools kids and care groups head down to give our dunes some TLC.

In just over 20 years Coast Care and its volunteers have planted more than a million native plants along the Bay of Plenty coastline.

These plants, mainly spinifex and pingao help bind sand onto the beach and stabilise the dunes. By creating healthier dunes our coastal communities and wildlife habitat are better protected from wind and wave erosion.

Paul Greenshields, Coast Care co-ordinator explains that planting days are great fun and not only are they a great excuse to get outdoors for a couple hours on a Sunday morning, but volunteers are making a huge difference to their local beach.

"Whether you turn up once or turn up weekly, every little bit of time that Bay of Plenty residents can give to Coast Care will help keep the dunes intact."

With planting days happening across the region from June to September, Mr Greenshields said anyone and everyone is welcome to come down and join in.

Upcoming dates include this Sunday, the 10th June at the Pukehina Surf Club and also at Taylors Reserve at Pāpāmoa Beach.

'We usually start around mid-morning and take about two hours. Volunteers are rewarded with a cuppa and a muffin afterwards. Parents are welcome to bring their children along too. All you need to bring is covered, sturdy footwear, clothing suitable for the weather and gardening gloves if you want. We'll supply the plants and spades."

Further details and contact information can be found on boprc.govt.nz/coastcareevents and on their facebook page @Coast Care Bay of Plenty.

The Coast Care programme is delivered through a partnership between Bay of Plenty Regional Council, four coastal district and city councils (Western Bay of Plenty, Tauranga, Ōpōtiki and Whakatane) and Department of Conservation. Find out more at www.boprc.govt.nz/coastcare