Cubs leader Jonwin Hellewell said she was surprised at the cubs’ reaction to the event.
"At the planting day they sat and listened for a whole hour. They were completely engaged. It was amazing," Ms Hellewell said.
They learned about native plants, ecosystems and how their efforts would help other species. Then they got to work and put in 160 plants in an hour.
"They got into a system. A couple of kids made the plant shelters, another couple transported the plants, and some helped [Otago Fish & Game officer Cole Briggs]. They didn’t need to be told."
The planting day went towards the cubs earning a community badge. Combined with an earlier fishing session at the private Molyneux Pond, it created a direct connection between conservation and outdoor recreation.
"They absolutely loved it at the pond. Some of the kids have never fished before, let alone caught a fish," she said.
Fish & Game had run a series of planting days and fishing events over the past few months with youth and community groups connecting conservation and outdoor recreation. The four groups involved had planted 750 native plants that would provide food, shelter and breeding environments for game birds and other wildlife.
Many planting volunteers then swapped their spades for spin rods, taking part in fishing sessions.
Otago Fish & Game officer Cole Briggs said the initiative had proved hugely successful in introducing new anglers to the sport and highlighting the need to protect habitat where recreational fishing and game bird hunting took place.
"The feedback’s been overwhelmingly positive. By restoring habitat, we’re directly benefiting freshwater sports fish, game birds, and many other wildlife species that we all value.
"It’s inspiring to see these groups go from a planting day with their hands in the dirt to a successful fishing trip. They see that their hard work protecting the environment is what sustains the world-class recreational opportunities we all enjoy," Mr Briggs said.
