Trees for Christmas

Getting stuck in: Respond Architects' Arthur Lee is a regular volunteer for the Whakatipu Reforestation Trust. PICTURE: WHAKATIPU REFORESTATION TRUST

Wine and cards are being replaced by native trees this year as one Queenstown business switches up its Christmas gifts.

Respond Architects has decided to donate to charities this Christmas, the Queenstown office nominating Whakatipu Restoration Trust thanks to the studio’s Arthur Lee, who’s a regular volunteer for the trust and has an immense passion for sustainability.

He says it wasn’t hard to convince his colleagues and bosses the organisation was the best choice to receive donations, while the trust says it’s ‘‘very happy’’ to be chosen.

After relocating and practically becoming the entire Queenstown branch of Respond two years ago, Lee has been actively involved in local reforestation and volunteers at plantings five or six days a year.

He says he’s always tried to live ‘‘a sustainable lifestyle’’ and enjoys the trust’s energy and positivity, so is pleased to share it with his colleagues.

Respond says the initiative aligns well with its environmental values, and native trees make ‘‘the perfect gift’’.

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