Lottery funding sows seeds of sustainability in Waitaki garden

Waitaki Community Gardens sowing the seeds of community and sustainability

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.
The garden not only brings the community together but also offers a refreshing antidote to today’s fast-paced, digital world.

With 100% of Lotto New Zealand profits being returned to funding 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. 

Read more Local Grant recipient stories. Find out more

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Local Highlight

10 days ago

Got more greens than you know what to do with? 🥦🌱🥕

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

Whether it’s a courgette takeover or a feijoa frenzy, don’t let those garden gems go to waste!

Our suggestion to you: Did you know you can grate and freeze excess courgettes to use in chocolate cake later? It sounds a bit dodgy, but it makes the cake incredibly moist ... and hey, it counts as a serving of veg, right? 🍫

What’s your go-to move for a bumper harvest? Drop your best "glut" recipes or preservation hacks in the comments below! 👇