Sea Cleaners has removed nearly 21 million litres of rubbish from New Zealand’s waterways since 2002 — and now the national not-for-profit is making waves in Tauranga, where its local crew has already hauled out close to 300,000 litres in just nine months.

In Tauranga, the mahi is led by skipper Josh and his deckhand, Tayla.

Armed with their trusty transport and a can-do attitude, they hit the waterways daily to haul debris.

“We’ve just got a ute and a boat, and we take off around the region and do our thing,” Josh shared.

One of the most common and stubborn items they find? Tyres.

“It’s phenomenal how many we find,” he said.

Volunteers play a huge role in the clean-ups. “Our lives are just so much easier with volunteers,” Josh explained

“More hands mean we can cover more ground. Without them, you’re walking away from piles of rubbish you just don’t have time to get to.”

Two regulars, Sharon and Andrea, are part of a wider network of volunteers who show up to lend a hand.

Behind the scenes with the team / Photo Supplied

Their commitment makes it possible to clear large volumes in a single day, a vital boost for such a physically demanding job, said Josh and Tayla.

Beyond volunteers, Sea Cleaners also relies on support in different ways.

“Bridge Marina, for example, lets us put our boat in, and other local groups help in lots of small ways.

“There’s just so many contributing factors — little bits of support that aren’t only sponsors but make a huge difference.”

Since launching in the Bay of Plenty just nine months ago, Josh and Tayla have already hauled out close to 300,000 litres of rubbish.

Alongside this, Sea Cleaners visits schools, teaching tamariki about the impact of rubbish and the difference small actions can make.

The mahi isn’t glamorous, and often the same beaches need clearing again within weeks.

Sea Cleaners inspiring local tamariki toward a cleaner future. Photo / Josh Malmo

But Josh keeps perspective: “I speak for myself and across the country, I’m really proud of our work and where we are at”.

Want to help protect our moana? Sea Cleaners are on the lookout for more volunteers to join their mission of cleaning up our coastlines and waterways — no maritime experience required!

Whether you’re keen to give time or need support finding helpers, Volunteering Services is here to help.

Learn more at www.volunteeringservices.org.nz or call (07) 987 0920.