Rock solid way to bring community together

painted rocks were found in Rolleston's Parekura Reserve as part of an initiative to bring the community together.
Painted rocks were found in Rolleston's Parekura Reserve as part of an initiative to bring the community together.
An initiative to bring the community together through painting and finding rocks is sweeping through Selwyn district.

Selwyn Rocks was started by the Selwyn Lions Club as a way to generate community spirit.

Lions club member Kathy Dore said they have had a great response from the community since launching the initiative earlier this year.

“Especially as certain parks like Prebbleton become more popular for rock hunting. Then people upload precious photos of young kids with massive smiles on their faces holding a painted rock as if it was the most amazing thing they have ever seen.”

Taking part in the Selwyn Rocks initiative is simple, Mrs Dore said.

“Just paint something inspiring or cheerful on a rock and leave it for someone to find. Then upload a photo of it to our Facebook rock page stating the area it is in so people know and wait and see what journey it takes.”

“Some of mine have even gone overseas. There is actually one on the top of a mountain in Germany right now.”

The Facebook page currently has 250 active members who post daily about finding and hiding rocks around the district.

Mrs Dore said she was introduced to rock painting by a friend just over a year ago while holidaying in Hanmer Springs.

“I loved it so much that I went home and I haven’t stopped painting rocks since. I probably paint for about three to four weeks with my daughter.”

Her only hope for the initiative is that it brings the community together,Mrs Dore said.

“No matter your skill level at painting I hope it gives pleasure from the simple act of sharing some love and kindness. For those who find a rock, maybe it gives them a boost and makes their day better.”

If you want to get involved, visit the Selwyn Rocks Facebook page for details about the next community rock painting event in October.