Top of the South Cachefest 2026
CITO!!!
Monday 26th October 9:00 to 12:00
Join us for the 2026 Top of the South Cachefest -The CITO event. We are proud to partner with the Nelson City Council as we unite to support the ongoing restoration of the Poorman Tributary.
A MESSAGE FROM NELSON COUNCIL:
"This initiative will make a significant contribution to the success of the Poorman Tributary riparian planting project. By spreading mulch around thousands of young native plants, volunteers are helping to suppress competing weeds, giving the new vegetation a much greater chance of establishing and thriving.
Mulch also plays an important role in retaining soil moisture, which will be especially important as we prepare for the possibility of a very hot, dry summer. By helping the soil stay cooler and retain water for longer, this work will improve plant survival and support the long-term development of a healthy riparian habitat.
Beyond the immediate benefits to the planting site, the willingness of people from across New Zealand to travel here and contribute their time reflects a shared commitment to restoring and protecting our natural environment. Every wheelbarrow of mulch spread today is an investment in healthier waterways, stronger biodiversity, and a more resilient landscape for future generations – as well as stronger community connections."
IMPORTANT EVENT INFORMATION:
SignOfTheSeahorse (Logan) and Riser5 (Nick) will be on-site to coordinate the activity. They will direct attendees to different roles and areas, including:
- Loading wheelbarrows with mulch
- Pushing wheelbarrows to designated planting zones
- Carrying out the actual mulching around native plants
Nelson City Council staff/contractors will also be present to help facilitate and guide the environmental work.
AFTER YOU FINISH helping with the mulching, and before you leave, please remember to sign the logbook, which will be with Riser5 and SignOfTheSeahorse.
WHAT TO BRING AND WEAR:
To keep everyone safe and comfortable:
- Clothing suitable for the conditions
- Sturdy footwear
- Sunscreen
- Water and snacks
- GARDENING GLOVES (This is important, if not essdential, for the mulching work)
For local volunteers, if you live nearby and are able to, please bring:
- Buckets
- Shovels
- Wheelbarrows
SITE INFORMATION:
See below for some current photos of the location. Imagine how great it will be in the future, thanks in some part to our efforts to help the plantings thrive!
Please see the additional waypoints for parking locations, including a carpark a short distance down the road and some road-side parking, and a small car park near the CITO coordinates, which we would ask everyone to please leave for those who are less mobile. The additional waypoints also include the nearest public toilet locations.
We Can’t Wait to See You There!
Your contribution will directly support the health of the Poorman Tributary and the wider Nelson environment. Thank you for being part of this kaupapa, helping create a lasting, positive impact and making the Top of the South Cachefest 2026 a more meaningful event.
For more details about the activities of the Top of the South Cachefest 2026 mega event weekend, please visit the event website, and the mega event cache page.