Hundreds of native trees are now taking root at a Tauranga reserve after volunteers helped restore a local wetland ecosystem.

Forty people from the World Mission Society Church of God planted 700 trees at Wairakei Reserve to restore the ecosystem and biodiversity, a statement said.

It is a global church in more than 7800 regions across 175 countries.

Tauranga City Council supported the activity by providing trees, gloves, and spades.

It was part of the church’s Hope Forest campaign to contribute to wildfire prevention, soil protection, and biodiversity conservation.

The campaign also included tree planting, invasive plant removal, pollinator protection, and forest clean-ups.

A church spokesperson said the aim was to make the ecological environment healthier and richer.

“Wairakei Reserve is a wetland where various native plants grow and wildlife inhabits and walking and cycling paths have been created along the waterways so that local residents can enjoy nature up close.”

The trees were expected to improve water quality, prevent soil erosion, and provide food and shelter for wildlife.

Volunteers learned how to use seedlings, spades, and watering cans.

The trees were expected to improve water quality, prevent soil erosion, and provide food and shelter for wildlife.

Volunteer Melino Fotu said he enjoyed working with fellow volunteers for a meaningful cause.

“Knowing that these tiny seedlings will grow into a lush forest that helps restore our local ecosystem makes me incredibly happy and proud.”

Jaydene Barnes said the activity was a way to give back to the community.

“It’s a privilege to be a part of the ‘Forest of Hope’ and to see the tangible impact we can make when we come together.”

The activity lasted about two hours. Volunteers dug holes, planted the seedlings, firmed the soil, and watered them.

Tauranga City Council community engagement and volunteer co-ordinator Angus Gough said the volunteers showcased a collaborative effort.

The Church of God has planted about 600 trees nationwide this year.

It has also contributed to climate change response and provided citizens with pleasant environments through invasive plant removal and environmental clean-up activities.

The church also carried out a campaign, ‘Worldwide Passover Love and Life Sharing Blood Drive’, to help neighbours whose lives are at risk because of blood shortages.