It is now 20 years since the Friends of Mangamangaroa was formed and a short power point presentation of the activities of the organization including the part that Howick Rotary played in its formation and ongoing operations was given by Allan Riley, Jim Duckworth and Warwick Kitchen. The power point presentation was accompanied by a quiz on the recognition of native tree samples – not an exercise members found easy!

The Reserve was first formed when a number of individuals and community groups convinced the then Manukau City Council to purchase the land from the Somerville Estate and turn it into a reserve. The first planting took place on the 12th June 1999. Since then, an estimated 4500 – 8000 trees have been planted each year creating an amazing 5.4km walkway for the community.
 
The club can feel justifiably proud of the part that it has played in helping form this wonderful environmental asset.