Good things take time
Contributed by Don Jellyman, Papanui Baptist Earthcare
In late 2024, two people from Papanui Baptist, representing our Earthcare and Youth Groups, met with James Beck, Eco Church Project Manager, to discuss proposing the planting of fruit trees in a small, one-hectare park near our church.
We surveyed the area to find out whether the space we had in mind was being used by the community and found that it was not being used much. We then wrote to our local community board, proposing that fruit trees be planted there and offering to help with the planting and serve as their guardians and caretakers.
We were invited to present our proposal to the board, which we did in February 2025. Our request was well received, and we thought formal approval was imminent. We were wrong – it took until July 2026, but the outcome was worth the wait.
Christchurch City Council is now encouraging fruit-tree planting in several Council parks and reserves, and we have held an on-site meeting to finalise plans for our park. Six to eight fruit trees will be planted, with the Council providing the trees and taking responsibility for watering and pruning them as needed. The Council will also prepare a volunteer agreement and signage recognising Papanui Baptist as the instigator and guardian of the planting.
Planting is planned for April 2027 and will involve the Council, our local primary school, Papanui Baptist Earthcare and YAP (Youth at Papanui).
It has been a long journey, but these trees should become a valuable community asset. Ensuring the fruit isn’t picked too soon by a few eager people may be our next challenge!
