About the programme

Help the Wellington region's environment for generations to come

Greater Wellington Regional Council has set up the Be the Difference programme to make a positive difference to the environment of the Wellington region.

From the Kapiti Coast, across to the Wairarapa, down through the Hutt Valley into Wellington city we enjoy a special range of plants, animals, river and sea life. Looking after our environment means you can surf, fish, tramp, picnic and walk in unspoilt beauty. We want you to help us protect it.

Community outreach

Greater Wellington is also working with community groups, such as church groups, interest groups and service clubs to help them make a difference to the region’s environment. Groups can get involved in a number of ways, from learning more about environmental issues to ways of being more environmentally friendly. Groups can also take part in environmental projects around the region.

This community outreach project was set up in July 2004 and has partial funding from Ministry for Environment’s Sustainable Management Fund. In this first year of the project, work is focusing on Wellington City and Kapiti Coast.

What does joining mean?

When you join the Be the Difference programme we'll write to you at least three times a year on different environmental issues like recycling and air quality (as well as events such as tree-planting days, where we can work together). Each communication will show you what you can do to make a difference.

To join the programme, please email us.

How do small changes to my daily life protect the local environment?

For example, washing your car on the lawn, rather than on the street, wherever you can. This stops detergents ending up in our rivers, coastal waters and in the harbour.