Residents are being encouraged to roll up their sleeves and help restore native dune habitat at a community planting day at Dotterel Point Reserve, Pukehina, this Sunday.

The event is being organised by Coast Care Bay of Plenty and the Maketū Ōngātoro Wetland Society, with volunteers gathering from 10am-12pm at the Dotterel Point carpark at the end of Pukehina Parade.

The familyfriendly working bee aims to help restore native dunes and protect habitat for local wildlife, including the endangered New Zealand dotterel.

Organisers said digging in the sand is quite easy, and dune restoration can be enjoyable and rewarding.

“You’ll be doing your bit for our native plants and animals and working with like-minded locals who care about the environment,” the society wrote on its Facebook page.

Volunteers are encouraged to bring gardening gloves, a spade if they have one, and wear sturdy covered footwear. A sun hat, water bottle and raincoat are also recommended.

Planting equipment will be provided, and participants can enjoy a barbecue lunch and refreshments after the event.

The community planting day is open to all ages and is a chance for locals and visitors alike to contribute to the ongoing restoration of Pukehina’s coastal environment.