Kia ora koutou,

It was fantastic to see new and loyal supporters at our recent events so thank you for braving the change in season.

We had over 130 people attend our electric vehicle seminars that highlighted the advantages of going electric. People showed their passion for strengthening our community at a free screening of 'Together We Grow'. We’re looking at bringing this inspiring New Zealand documentary to New Plymouth and Hawera so watch this space and follow our FB page.

North Taranaki schools are supporting community environmental initiatives through our Te Ara Taiao Project which aspires to extend to South Taranaki. Students, who had never seen a Kiwi before, were privileged to participate in three releases on the Kaitake Ranges. We’re blown away by the new partnerships so thanks for being part of our thriving community.

Ngā mihi nui

Exploring Electric Vehicles

With petrol prices near all-time highs, it’s not surprising people are considering switching to an electric vehicle. Making that leap aligns with Sustainable Taranaki’s values in protecting our taiao (natural environment) which is why we co-hosted two events this month.

Rangatahi Researching Waitara’s Marine Life

Sustainable Taranaki is creating environmental leaders by educating Waitara High School students about the importance of protecting the moana (sea). Read about the rare species they found thriving on the local coastline.

Sustainable Backyards Trail

Friday 28 October - Sunday 6 November

We’re excited the trail is launching in July so be the first to get your copy of the program today!

Together We Grow

The housing crisis, 6% rise in inflation, food insecurity, and social isolation from COVID-19 has forced Aotearoa communities to unite. To empower our community, we collaborated with the Stratford District Council to host the New Zealand documentary ‘Together We Grow’.

Learn the Art of Composting

We’d love to see you at our hot composting workshop at Korito Garden in Westown this Saturday 30th April or learn how to compost at Marfell Community Garden this Sunday 1st May.

Kiwis Create Life-long Memories

As part of our Te Ara Taiao project, Ngā Motu students got to see Kiwis up close at Pukeiti before the birds were released on the Kaitake Ranges. Read how rangatahi (young people) reacted after meeting our region’s unique taonga.

SAVE on Your Power Bill

Small changes can make a big difference as winter brings cold homes and an increase in electricity costs. We’d love to support your whānau by sharing home energy tips so come to the next workshop on Friday 6th May from 12-1pm at Waimanako/The Hope Centre (33 Devon St) to discover how to keep your whānau warmer this winter.

Blessing for St Mary's Pātaka Maara Garden

After a successful first hui, 20 people brainstormed ideas for bringing Hawera’s new community garden to life. Aspirations include a healing space, school plots, seating with picnic tables, and even a pizza garden, says Coordinator Alice Arnold.

“Plenty of keen enthusiastic people are keen to dig in and get started by sharing plants from their own gardens and knowledge. We have wonderful programs happening in our schools and the space provides a perfect platform for them to engage with the community,” says Alice.

The Princess Street site will be blessed this Wednesday 27 April at 10 am so bring shared kai to this wonderful celebration and keep updated on Facebook St Mary's Community Garden - Hawera or email Alice.

Midhirst Students making an IMPACT

Midhirst students spruced up their school garden with an awesome Autumn makeover.  The Year 8 tamariki came up with the idea to build a compost bay out of untreated wooden pallets for green waste and an all-year bee garden to keep the orchard pollinated. 

“The kids were keen to support the bees so planted spring bulbs and herbs for winter so flowering plants feed the bees,” says coordinator Mieke Verschoor. 

Paritutu class teacher Colleen Tett is proud of her class of 14 pupils.

“The students love being outdoors and helping out the school community. These projects are based on our hauora values of giving back and taking care of our wellbeing.” 

Meet the Team - Jodie Munro

Jodie is leading recycling tours at The Junction - Zero Waste Hub so book a tour today! Jodie's passion is giving back to the environment which is a perfect fit for our new Zero Waste Events and Junction Education Manager. Growing up rurally, Jody spent much of her life outdoors and continues to be inspired by Aotearoa’s nature.

A planner at heart, Jodie is excited to bring her passions together, combining experience in construction project management and event planning with her love of our taiao - natural environment.

From tramping to craft, DIY, dance, and gardening; when she’s not working you’ll find Jodie coffee in hand, learning new hobbies or mastering old skills. Haere mai Jodie!

Events Calendar

Local environmentally and community-focused events, all in one place!

Are you passionate about sustainability and supporting our growing community? Follow us on Facebook, join our Sustainable Taranaki Community Facebook Group, and get involved in local events and educational opportunities!.