GROW Pōneke

Celebrating community and kai together.

A food stall at a street festival.
Photo credit: Seeds to Feeds

Welcome to Grow Pōneke, a celebration of local kai, community, and the ways they connect to make our city flourish.

The celebrations begin with Local Food Week (26 February – 3 March) – an annual festival created by community organisation, Seeds to Feeds. With council support, Seeds to Feeds have drawn together a week of local food experiences that connect people to place and each other. Producers, spaces, and initiatives nurturing our local food communities are showcased. Come join us for a feast of opportunities to meet and share, learn and practice, as we grow, cook and eat together.

Next up is Neighbours Aotearoa (March). A month-long campaign inviting everyone to get to know their neighbours better. How can you create big or small opportunities for your neighbours to connect?

This year’s theme is ‘Growing Together’, so what about organising a plant swap, a garden bee, or a homegrown potluck? Or take a look at the calendar for events in your area, including community picnics, a children’s treasure hunt, and morning waiata.

Seeds to Feeds Harvest Festival also runs in March. A program of incredibly special community meals showcase kai grown and prepared locally by exceptional community members. A great way to celebrate community, kai and connection. Harvest Festival events are happening every weekend and finish with Te Aro Eats at CubaDupa.

Festivities wind-up with the Community Gardens Open Sundays (April). If you’ve ever wondered what happens at the city’s many community gardens and how you can get involved, this is your chance to find out. From lush pocket gardens to rambling urban oases, gardens in a different area of the city will be hosting visitors each Sunday.