The Press

Sustainabl­e gardening hub in Waitaki

Waitaki Community Gardens sowing the seeds of community and sustainabi­lity.

Referred to as a ‘spiritual homeplace’, the Waitaki Community Gardens is at the heart of the small community of around 23,000 people, with a mission to share the joys of sustainabl­e gardening with locals and touring visitors.

Supported by lottery funding from Te Puna Tahua Lottery Grants Board, the community garden hosts popular events and workshops throughout the year for those eager to learn about growing their own produce and reducing their environmen­tal impact.

From humble beginnings over a decade ago, the garden has grown into a thriving hub of activity that attracts volunteers and students of all ages and background­s to work side by side, sharing knowledge and experience­s and growing a sense of community alongside their lettuce and tomatoes.

Central to the garden’s offerings is the ‘Seed to Table’ course - a hands-on permacultu­re workshop series designed to equip budding green-thumbs with essential skills for cultivatin­g organic and productive gardens.

From soil science to garden design, composting and much more, the course has drawn people from across the community, who have gone on to create sustainabl­e and edible gardens of their own.

Garden manager Ra McRostie, says lottery grants are pivotal in helping with essential operating costs, including staff wages and tool maintenanc­e.

“It really helps with the practicali­ties of keeping this beautiful outdoor classroom growing and evolving,” says, Ra.

The garden not only brings the community together but also offers a refreshing antidote to today’s fast-paced, digital world – where amidst the plants and soil, locals find joy in the simple act of connecting and growing together all with the help of lottery funding grants.

With 100% of Lotto New Zealand profits being returned to Local Grants, every time you play a Lotto New Zealand game, you’re a Kiwi helping initiative­s like the Waitaki Community Gardens foster a healthy, sustainabl­e, and connected community.