Kai Rotorua is a kaupapa that brings whānau together to reconnect with Papatūānuku through mahi māra (gardening work), ako (learning), and whanaungatanga (relationships). Rooted in mātauranga Māori, the initiative empowers communities to grow their own kai, fostering food sovereignty and environmental resilience.
A kūmara planting day at Rakaunui was a beautiful example of this kaupapa in action. People of all ages gathered to share kōrero, laughter, and hands-on learning in the māra kai. One participant shared, “I came home feeling such joy and totally inspired. Being together in the garden, learning and planting with others from across the motu, was truly special.”
As part of Sustainable Backyards Bay of Plenty, Kai Rotorua also hosted an Open Garden event, where manuhiri explored syntropic agroforestry—a regenerative method that mimics natural ecosystems to restore soil health and biodiversity. The event also featured a tour of Aotearoa’s first above-ground Hempcrete kūmara facility, showcasing innovation in sustainable food storage.
