In the aftermath of Cyclone Gabrielle, students from our ATCMilitary Prep Programme were among the fellows helping with recovery efforts in their local community.
The A J Seeley Gully Reserve in Hamilton is the result of a 60year long ongoing project to restore and protect native plants. This project was started by Dr Alwyn Seeley to turn 2.5 hectares of barren land into lushnative greenery which many native birds call their home. Seeley gifted the landto the Hamilton City Council in 2003, and they now recruit volunteers to maintain the reserve.
Post cyclone, the effects on the gully were prominent. Winds were strong enough to cause trees to fall, not only blocking walkways but also damaging the homes of native wildlife.
On Monday 27th February, around 30 students from NZSE College Hamilton volunteered to clean up the mess at A J Seeley Gully Reserve left behind by Cyclone Gabrielle. They removed blocks of wood from where the trees had fallen to clear up the area for replanting. These efforts not only helped to clean up the reserve but to improve the biodiversity of Aotearoa.
We’re grateful to have fostered students willing to give back to their region in times of need. It is with programmes like our ATC Military Prep courses that their hearts grow and we can truly see how much they love their community.
Our school of Foundational Pathways courses prepare students to be academically, mentally and physically ready for working in the community in the NZ Defence Force (NZDF), Fire Services, Army, police, Search and Rescue (SAR), Customs and Security sectors. Our programmes range from levels 1 to 3.
