Planting seeds of knowledge

Te Hōnonga a Iwi Chair Sheryl Blythen reports back from the July meeting of the Strategy Committee.

One of the things that makes Te Hōnonga a Iwi special is that sharing knowledge sits at the heart of everything we do.

Yes, we are restoring a native forest, growing food in our māra kai, improving freshwater quality and creating healthier ecosystems. But just as importantly, we are creating opportunities for people to understand why this work matters and how they can take that knowledge back into their own homes, schools, workplaces and communities.

Climate change is recognised as one of the greatest challenges facing humanity. Responding to it isn't just about planting more trees and eradicating pests. It requires people who understand the connections between healthy soil, clean water, thriving biodiversity, food security and resilient communities.

That learning happens every day at Te Hōnonga a Iwi.

Our university interns and capstone students bring fresh ideas and research that they generously share with us. We learn from specialists such as Matt Cummings from Untangled Landscapes, whose expertise in regenerative land management continues to shape our work. At the same time, experienced volunteers pass on practical skills and local knowledge that can't be found in a textbook.

Every visitor becomes part of that learning journey. From preschool children planting their very first native tree, to secondary school students, corporate volunteer groups, faith-based communities, sports clubs and retirees, everyone leaves with a deeper understanding of how healthy ecosystems support healthy communities.

One exciting initiative discussed by the Strategy Committee this month is a new 10-week environmental education programme we have co-designed with our neighbours at the Ismaili Community Centre. Young people will spend time at the restoration each Sunday, building practical skills and ecological knowledge that they can use to serve their own communities.

Participants will explore topics including regenerative growing methods, carbon sequestration, freshwater health, biodiversity, waste reduction, food production, native planting and the importance of caring for our natural environment. They will also discover how stronger social connections help communities become more resilient when facing the impacts of climate change.

The knowledge shared at Te Hōnonga a Iwi doesn't stay within the boundaries of our restoration. It spreads through every person who visits, volunteers, learns and shares what they've discovered with others. That's how we grow not only a healthier environment, but a more resilient and connected community.