Earth Day budget boost

Envirohub Marlborough have been given a $5000 boost to help educate the community on climate change.

The environmental advocacy group are coordinating this year’s Earth Day event later this month.

Organisers hope the cash injection from the Rātā Foundation will help unite people in a common goal.

Envirohub Coordinator Tash Luxton says the free event aims to inspire and provide fun events on conservation and wildlife education for everyone.

"Thanks to Rāta Foundation, Envirohub Marlborough has been able to organise Earth Day, a free, fun, and family-friendly event that educates our community on how to tread a little lighter and minimise their footprint.

"Earth Day aims to unite Marlburians, bringing all demographics together and fostering that sense of belonging, which is vital in maintaining and building strong, resilient communities."

Envirohub Marlborough helps educate the community on climate change breakdown realities and provides education on how best to respond.

Earth Day is also supported by the Department of Conservation, with other funding from sponsorships, local businesses, and Marlborough District Council.

The recently approved grant of $5000 will support the Envirohub Trust with the picnic's operating costs.

“As part of the event, we will be running free community workshops aimed at both adults and children, which will help families feel a little less intimidated in moving to a more sustainable lifestyle and, in turn, a more sustainable community,” Tash says.

People are encouraged to bring their own picnic or purchase food from a variety of local vendors.

There will be live music, a kids’ zone, and a craft market.

Rātā Foundation chief executive Leighton Evans says Marlborough impressed with its can-do attitude.

"Bringing people and community organisations together supports that sense of connection and belonging which is vital to make a thriving region," he says.

"Marlborough stands out firmly as a region committed to making things happen and supporting its communities to grow strong, resilient foundations.

“Whether it is a small or large grant that a group receives from us – the result is the same – improvements in the quality of life of the people that reside here."

The Earth Day 2021 picnic will be held on Sunday, 18 April, at Pollard Park between 10am and 3.00 pm.