Meet The Team
Trees for Canterbury is a Not-for-profit Community organisation.
From the start there was a strong trust (The Green Effect Trust) with people of widely varying experience and expertise to spearhead the cause of Trees For Canterbury. What made the difference between a good idea and a successfully accomplished good idea was the commitment of people working at Trees For Canterbury. These people were mostly on employment work schemes at first, and community support in general – seeing to it that Trees For Canterbury grew from a small operation in back yards to the fully operational nursery that it is today.
Our Volunteers
Our volunteers are at the very core of what makes our nursery so special. Coming from a wide range of backgrounds, communities, and life experiences, they bring diversity, resilience, and heart into everything we do. Together, we are creating far more than a growing space — we are building a supportive, welcoming community where everyone has a place and a purpose.
Many of our volunteers join us while navigating personal challenges, including mental health experiences, neurodivergence, or periods of transition in their lives. Others are gaining practical work skills, rebuilding confidence, or taking positive steps toward employment. We are proud to work alongside YCD and support young and vulnerable people of all ages, offering a safe and structured environment where individuals can learn, grow, and feel valued.
From Monday to Friday, our volunteers are the hands that make it all happen. They carefully pot each plant, tend to seedlings, prepare orders, and help maintain the nursery with dedication and pride. Every tray filled, every plant labelled, and every bench organised reflects their patience and care. The quality of our plants is a direct result of their commitment.
As a small charity, we simply could not do what we do without them. Their contribution is not just practical — it is personal. They bring kindness, encouragement, and mutual support to the nursery each day. Through shared tasks and shared experiences, friendships are formed, confidence grows, and a genuine sense of belonging flourishes. Our volunteers don’t just help run the nursery — they make it possible.
Rooted in ecological care and community connection, we grow native plants that restore local ecosystems, support biodiversity, and strengthen Canterbury’s natural heritage. We value sustainable practices, social responsibility, and working with our local community to nurture the landscapes we all share.