Otago Regional Council (ORC) representatives and Honda New Zealand dignitaries gather at Southern Honda for the presentation of a certificate of appreciation for the Honda TreeFund’s support for native planting work in the region.
Otago Regional Council (ORC) and Honda New Zealand representatives gathered at Southern Honda on Tuesday for the presentation of a certificate of appreciation for the $42,000 in funding support provided by the Honda TreeFund so far.
In presenting the certificate, ORC chairman Stephen Cairns said the four-year relationship had been a valuable one for the region.
‘‘We appreciate the longterm commitment this [funding] represents,'' Mr Cairns said.
‘‘It is a significant and valuable input to environmental issues in Otago.''
Honda New Zealand managing director Graeme Seymour said the Honda TreeFund was one part of Honda's efforts to counter the pollution and carbon dioxide emissions from motor vehicles.
The company was also putting its efforts into developing technology to reduce emissions and increase fuel efficiency.
‘‘We are very proud of our success in last week's AA Energywise Rally, where Honda took seven of the top 10 places,'' Mr Seymour said.
Organised by the Automobile Association (AA) in conjunction with the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA) and Gull Petroleum New Zealand, the annual four-day rally around the North Island aims to show drivers that they can slash their fuel bills by choosing a fuelefficient car and driving it sensibly.
The Honda Civic Hybrid car was named Supreme Winner of the event, for being the vehicle that completed the 1641km distance at the lowest cost - a total of $111.72.
Set up by Honda New Zealand in 2004 with the objective of off-setting some of the emissions generated by motor vehicles, the Honda TreeFund funds 10 native trees for every new Honda car sold.
In addition, individual Honda agents contribute three trees to the TreeFund for each new car they sell. Car buyers can also contribute if they wish.
At the end of the financial year, the funds that have been accumulated in each region are distributed through their respective regional councils.
Community groups or individuals who are carrying out native planting projects in Otago can apply for money from the Otago Honda TreeFund through the ORC.
Nationally, the Honda TreeFund has distributed $1.7 million in funds, paying for the planting of 370,000 native trees throughout New Zealand.
In Otago, the fund has helped projects, from school grounds to waterways and reserves, with the purpose of controlling water runoff and erosion, beautification and restoration of biodiversity.
Areas planted include the Sinclair Wetlands, Kaikorai Stream, Mr Stuart Reserve and Collinswood Bush.
Although tough economic times would impact on the motor vehicle industry, Honda NZ remained committed to the Honda TreeFund, Mr Seymour said.
