Growing Goodness: Katikati's Community Power
Nestled in the vibrant mural town of Katikati, a captivating tale of community-driven change is unfolding.
Meet Grow On Katikati, a community-led project that has taken root and is transforming the local landscape.
Born out of the aftermath of the 2020 lockdown, Grow On Katikati emerged from the realisation that the community was vulnerable when it came to food security. A group of dedicated individuals banded together, determined to cultivate resilience and enhance local food sustainability.
Thanks to the support of local sponsors like Kings Seeds and Gammans, as well as philanthropic organisations such as TECT, COGS, NZ Lottery Grants Board, and BayTrust, Grow On Katikati has flourished. These partnerships have provided the project with the resources it needs to thrive and make a tangible impact.
At the heart of Grow On Katikati are passionate volunteers who sow seeds and nurture seedlings. Become a member of Grow On Katikati and gain access to a bountiful array of free seedlings every Saturday. With a membership fee of only $60 per year (that's just $5 per month!), you can collect as many seedlings as you need to cultivate your own thriving garden. Casual visitors are also welcome to join in the fun and contribute a koha for the seedlings they take home.
Beyond providing seedlings, Grow On Katikati also fosters education and community engagement. A children's growing club is in place to educate and inspire the next generation of gardeners. The project boasts its own Seed Library, which ensures seed resilience for the future. Last year alone, over 6000 seedlings were distributed to the community, making a tangible difference in local food production.
In addition to providing access to seedlings, Grow On Katikati organises monthly workshops that cover a range of topics. From seed sowing to composting and food preservation, these sessions empower participants with practical knowledge to enhance their gardening skills. Local experts, like Heather Wills who shares her wisdom on jam and chutney making, and Sharn Steadman from Manaaki Mushrooms, who unravels the secrets of growing giant garden mushrooms, lend their expertise.
The project thrives on collaboration and generous sponsorships. Kings Seeds generously sponsors a diverse range of seeds, ensuring a variety of options for participants. Gammans, on the other hand, provides the soil necessary to nurture healthy plants.
To stay connected with the Grow On Katikati community, interested individuals can subscribe to the monthly newsletter by emailing growonkatikati@gmail.com. The newsletter will inform about upcoming workshops, events, and opportunities to engage with the project.
Grow On Katikati is more than just a project—it's a testament to the power of community and collective action. Through their efforts, they are cultivating a more resilient and sustainable future. Join them in their quest to transform Katikati into a green oasis, one seedling at a time.