Closing Out 2025: A Year of Foundations, Whanaungatanga, and Forward Momentum for The Big Kai Redesign

As we reach the end of 2025, the Rautāpatu team has been reflecting on a year that has been both grounding and energising. The Big Kai Redesign kaupapa has taken root, the foundations are forming, and the vision is becoming clearer with every conversation, every wānanga, and every act of community generosity.

This year was about starting well, listening deeply, building trust, and shaping a shared pathway forward. And in that journey, we’ve seen incredible commitment from whānau, partners, and supporters across the motu and beyond.

A Year of Learning, Listening, and Growing Capability

One of the highlights of 2025 was the series of wānanga held throughout the year. These gatherings brought together local voices, national experts, and international collaborators, including our valued connections with Fontagro and other global food‑systems innovators.

Our three‑day Circular Innovations Wānanga in conjunction with the Auckland University Business School, centred on circularity, was a standout moment. It challenged us to think bigger, design smarter, and consider how circular systems can uplift whānau, reduce waste, and strengthen community resilience. The kōrero was rich, the ideas bold, and the energy unmistakable.

Kai Grown and Shared with Purpose

This year, maara‑grown kai made its way into the hands and homes of those who needed it most. Fresh produce was shared with whānau experiencing hardship, and also supported important cultural and community moments including:

• Wānanga

• Tangihanga

• Matariki celebrations

• Festivals and community gatherings

Every kete delivery reinforced the power of kai to connect, nourish, and uplift.

Strengthening Relationships and Exploring New Opportunities

2025 was also a year of deepening relationships. Existing partnerships grew stronger as we worked side‑by‑side with organisations and community groups who share our big visionary future.

At the same time, new opportunities emerged, collaborations that will help the momentum. These relationships are the backbone of our kaupapa, and we’re grateful for every person and organisation who has walked alongside us this year.

He Ngākau Nui - Thank You to Our Supporters

To our community, funders, partners, and especially our whānau: ngā mihi maioha. Your belief in this kaupapa, your willingness to contribute, and your commitment to long‑term change have made this year possible.

Looking Ahead to 2026

We step into 2026 with optimism and determination. There is still a great deal of work ahead, systems to build, capability to grow, and community aspirations to bring to life. But the momentum is real, and the foundations laid in 2025 give us confidence in what’s possible.

Next year, we look forward to:

• Expanding maara capability

• Strengthening circular kai systems

• Deepening partnerships

• Increasing community access to healthy, affordable kai

• Creating even greater impact

This kaupapa is only just beginning, and we’re excited for what lies ahead.

Wishing You a Restful and Connected Holiday Season

From all of us in the Rautāpatu team, we wish you and your whānau a peaceful, nourishing, and joy‑filled holiday season. Thank you for being part of this journey. We look forward to returning in 2026 with renewed energy, deeper collaboration, and an unwavering commitment to creating meaningful community impact.

Ngā manaakitanga,

The Rautāpatu Team