He Puāwai Trust
A whanau-led approach to community kai production in Te Awakairangi (the Hutt Valley)
Our Current Mahi
Let`s Grow Stokes Valley.
Our first major pilot of what a fully connected community kai hub could look like is underway in Stokes Valley, Lower Hutt. After 12 months of Kai Conversations and shaping a strategic approach that involves many stakeholders and supporters, we are now in the implementation phase. This mahi is funded by MSD, Puta Ora funding.
Wainuiomata - helping to grow the bright spots.
Our mahi is just beginning in Wainuiomata, alongside Kokiri Marae and in particular, their Pataka Kai who are leading, with He Puawai playing a supporting role. Our focus is the full conversion of their māra into a highly productive Maara Ora that will ensure a continuous supply of fresh vege to the Pataka, alongside weekly workshops and learning opportunities for whanau, plots for those who cannot grow at home - and excitingly, the build of a community kitchen that can provide education and meals to those who cannot cook for themselves.
Central Hutt - A partnership approach.
Our mahi in Central Hutt demonstrates the heart of our kaupapa - working closely with whanau, partnering with the local foodbank (in this case, Lower Hutt Foodbank) and showcases what a neighbourhood based Kai Hub can look like. It is also the home of our community seedling project, Tipu.
Our Kaupapa
“Learning to grow a Māra alongside others, has taught me what my Nan knew, and helped me make new friends. My kids eat better now”
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Growing Change
He Puawai Trust has a mission to build resilience in whenua, whānau, and hāpori through restoring and developing sustainable, local food systems.
One of our strategic focuses is to shift the dial from kai crisis to resilience. We do this by providing opportunities for education and development in kai skills across Te Awa Kairangi, and by shaping community kai hubs and plans.
