Far North seed bank project gains funding
A community seed bank project and a school garden programme are among 12 community initiatives to gain support from the Kai Ora Fund.
The fund is a joint initiative between Te Tai Tokerau Primary Health Organisation and the Far North District Council.
The fund’s aims include promoting healthy eating in communities and improved food security in the area.
The Far North Community Seed Bank Project is hoped to turn into a regional project that would encourage the sharing of a variety of seeds throughout the Far North.
Coordinator Colin Walker says the group is looking for people who want to become involved in the establishment of the regional bank.
Hubs could be in Kaitaia and the Hokianga and could work in conjunction with the more established Kerikeri bank, Walker says.
The idea is to grow seeds for a variety of produce and run it like a trading bank.
‘‘Anyone who contributes to the growing of the seed or maintenance could have access to the bank.’’
Walker says they are also looking for people to help with the administration of the project.
Based at Ahipara Primary School, the Ahipara Community Gardens will be an asset both to the school and the wider area.
Project Coordinator Lisa Merlo says they are looking at establishing a six-bay vegetable garden with their allocated funds.
She says the produce will be shared out and a meeting will be held to work out how to keep the garden sustainable.
‘‘It’s huge to get funding like this, it’s fantastic for the kids with a new project and something exciting to look forward too.’’
Merlo says they want to change the kids diets and hope the children can learn good habits from the start.
FNDC spokesperson Ken Ross says people are realising you can provide cheap, healthy options locally.
‘‘The Kai Ora Fund helps communities do just that by providing funding to get projects off the ground.’’
Other fund recipients include the Kaeo Community Orchard Project and an organic education programme.
If you are interested in becoming involved with the seed bank project contact 09 407 3488.