Cleaning Even the Hidden Corners

During the school break, the Church of God University Student Volunteer Group (ASEZ) carried out a street cleanup in Christchurch, New Zealand. The event was especially meaningful as it brought together not only ASEZ members from Korea, but also a local environmental group leader and ASEZ members from the University of Canterbury and Ara Institute of Canterbury.

The volunteer activity took place along the Avon River and its surrounding trails. According to local officials, the area—popular among residents for walking and exercising—often becomes littered with household waste. We began the cleanup with the goal of improving both the environment and public awareness.

Despite the chilly weather and strong winds, every volunteer worked hard at their assigned locations. The riverside and nearby trails were scattered with small bits of household waste, including plastics and vinyl. Under a bridge, we found a discarded tire, apparently dumped in secret. There were also several large pieces of scrap metal, which required three or four volunteers to lift and remove due to their weight.

Passersby who saw us cleaning gave us thumbs-up or greeted us with words of encouragement. Some even joined in to help.

The cleanup began at 11 a.m. and lasted about an hour and a half. At first, we thought we would simply be picking up the visible trash. But to our surprise, more waste was hidden beneath the water and in the underbrush than out in the open. As one member reflected afterward, ASEZ’s efforts are needed even in the places that are not easily seen.

Volunteering alongside local citizens made the experience feel all the more meaningful. From now on, I will continue spreading positive influence—starting from my campus and local community—with the vision of making a difference not only in our region and cities, but throughout the world.