The Tauranga community is being encouraged to get their hands dirty and join in on the annual Kopurererua Valley community planting this weekend.

The event is part of the Kopurererua Valley Rotary Centennial Trust's long term commitment to the restoration of the valley through the City Partnership Programme.

Event organiser, Rotary Centennial Trust chairman Ian Wilson, says the planting day was part of the Trust's long term commitment to helping Tauranga City Council create an ecological asset close to the city centre and surrounding urban environment that the entire community can enjoy.

'On Sunday we'll be focused on planting native grasses around Tauranga's newest lake, which will give the valley yet another boost. The Trust is providing more than 5000 plants, which have been grown by Naturally Native nurseries.

'We'd love as many people as possible to join in and help get the plants in the ground.”

City Partner OfficeMax will be running competitions and supplying prizes.

There will also be three ‘Golden Tickets' hidden in plant pots. Whoever finds these tickets can nominate a Western Bay of Plenty school of their choice to receive a stationery pack courtesy of OfficeMax.

OfficeMax Sales Manager Michael Normansell says they always enjoy being involved in the Kopurererua Valley planting days.

'It's a great opportunity for both business and local communities to work together and improve our urban environment for future generations to enjoy. OfficeMax continues to support our local community and this great event.”

Rotarians are asking members of the public to arrive at the Faulkner Street kiosk for a 10am start.

Gumboots or sturdy, closed shoes are recommended and gloves would be useful to have also. The holes will be pre-dug, so spades are not necessary.

The planting day is very unlikely to be cancelled because of rain. Listen to local radio networks for information if in doubt, or call the planting day information phone number on (07) 577 7343.