Volunteers that help keep Ashburton looking spick and span are gearing up for another busy year, with the first rubbish pick-up day on Thursday 10 February.

Members of Litter-Free Ashburton meet on the second Thursday of every month (except in the January school holidays) and collect litter from 1.30pm until around 3pm.

Between eight and 12 people regularly turn up at a pre-arranged area and split into groups to take on sections to be cleared. The group has a special interest in the North Park Reserve, which is on the eastern side of State Highway 1 on the northern side of Ashburton.

Spokesperson Bev Skates said the group also joined with activities on Keep NZ Beautiful Week, held every year in October.

Council supports the litter-gatherers by providing high visibility vests, rubbish bags, disposable gloves, banners and rubbish picker-uppers.

Rubbish collected is put in one or two tidy heaps and is collected within 24 hours by EnviroWaste.

“Our group likes that litter issues are addressed promptly. We use Snap Send Solve, with very good results. We are also aware that people sometimes dump large amounts of litter in our riverbed areas.”

The first litter collection for 2022 is on Thursday 10 February and the second will be on Thursday 10 March. The group is always on the lookout for other hardworking and enthusiastic people to join their team.

Council Community Services Group Manager Steve Fabish said the group did great work helping keep Ashburton litter-free.

“They are all volunteers who give up their time and we really appreciate them. Everyone who drives into Ashburton from both ends of town can see the fruits of their labour and the reserves looking clean and green.”

Keep an eye on the group’s Facebook page, Litter-Free Ashburton, for more information.