Update about the volunteer programme

The volunteer beach clean up programme known as Operation Beach Clean started on Friday 14 October.

Mayor Stuart Crosby is fronting the volunteer programme at community and press briefings on behalf of Tauranga City Council, Western Bay District Council and Bay of Plenty Regional Council.

The Bay of Plenty Regional Council have set up a page on their website called the rena oil spill volunteer hub where people can volunteer, get the latest updates, information on times and locations of clean ups.    Updates will also be on the radio and in the Bay of Plenty Times. 

 If you haven’t already registered as a beach clean up volunteer please fill the online registration form, phone 0800 645 774 or you can register at the Mount, Omanu or Papamoa Surf Clubs. 

A few points to remember about volunteering

1. You must be 16 years of age or older and physically fit. Please do not bring children or pets with you. 
    
2. You must be willing to work a minimum of a 4-hour shift.
    
3. You must bring your own pair of gumboots. Volunteers without their own gumboots will not be permitted to clean-up for safety reasons. 
    
4. Do not bring additional equipment, such as your own protective suits, shovels, rakes, sacks and gloves: these will be provided. 
    
5. Bring your own food and water. Clean-up can be physically challenging so you will need to stay well-nourished.

If you have any experience in bird or animal handling and could help with wildlife recovery please call 0800 333 771.