Lowe & Co's second annual Planting Action Day delivered extraordinary results, with 708 native trees planted – setting new records for both Lowe & Co and Wellington planting events. This achievement builds on their pioneering environmental leadership as the first real estate agency in New Zealand to measure and action their carbon footprint.

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From measurement to real action

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Since January 1st, 2024, Lowe & Co has been measuring their carbon footprint and funding native trees monthly through CarbonInvoice, demonstrating genuine commitment beyond mere compliance. Their decision to move from offshore carbon credits to local tree planting reflects their values as a Wellington-based progressive real estate brand.

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Around 40 Lowe & Co agents and staff gathered at Catchpool Valley for this meaningful day out of the office, connecting directly with the environmental impact their business funds year-round. The weather started cold (just above 2 degrees) with southeasterly winds, but warmed to a pleasant 10-12 degrees by the 11:30 AM start time.

Impact: 708 native seedlings planted

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708 native seedlings planted – surpassing their 2024 achievement of 601 trees at Belmont Regional Park by 18%.

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The diverse species planted included manuka, totara, cardamom, hebe, and coprosma, with one surprise discovery of a mirosma tree planted by a "renegade planter" from a previous session. These trees will create crucial habitat corridors in the stunning Catchpool Valley setting, surrounded by mature native bush.

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The visual progress was remarkable – hundreds of cardboard plant guards dotting the landscape, showing tangible results of Lowe & Co's ongoing environmental investment. Deer tracks on the planting paddock provided a perfect real-world example of why plant guards are essential for protecting young seedlings until they mature.

The Lowe & Co spirit

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Top Planter

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‍Tony Afendoulis claimed first place with an impressive 60 trees – more trees than years he's lived, setting both new Lowe & Co and Wellington records.

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Most Enthusiastic

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‍Robin Angell won for putting on the tree suit and bringing maximum energy, literally blending in with the natural environment so well he could sneak up on agents (including one mid-phone deal!). As a former builder turned real estate agent, Robin's enthusiasm and people skills shone through his tree costume performance.

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Best Collaboration

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‍Clare Newton-Smith and her triple-threat team won for their systematic approach and awesome teamwork, taking home warm merino wool beanies.

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Biggest Rock

‍The creative "largest rock" prize went to the agent who dug up a colossal rock, dubbed "Robbie The Rock," which now sits in a permanent rock garden at the planting site.

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The day showcased different planting styles – some agents worked in their usual house-selling teams of 2-3, operations staff like Kyla and Shelly collaborated together, and one creative team had someone with an injured arm directing materials while teammates did the planting. Managing Director Craig, though unable to plant due to injury, took responsibility for capturing content and photos.

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The energy fluctuated with weather conditions – slowing when clouds covered the sun and wind picked up, then surging when sunshine returned. Carlos kept spirits high with carefully curated music spanning generations, including some energising drum and bass when planting energy waned. Many agents found the experience meditative and connecting, appreciating the rare opportunity to touch dirt and be in nature away from the hustle of listing and selling houses. Those from rural backgrounds found it nourishing to return to nature, while urban dwellers discovered the rewards of outdoor environmental action.

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The day concluded with a barbecue, prize-giving ceremony, and the famous Lowe & Co planting action war chant, with discussions already underway about creating a "Lowe & Co planting shanty" for 2026.

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708 trees planted, records broken, and a deeper connection forged between Lowe & Co's team and the native trees their business funds monthly. As New Zealand's sustainability-leading real estate agency, Lowe & Co continues to demonstrate that environmental leadership and business success go hand in hand.