Exciting Times Ahead: Launching the Kai Resilience Strategy Project August 2025

30 May 2025

The Rautāpatu Foundation is thrilled to announce the upcoming launch of the Kai Strategy Project in August 2025. This project is dedicated to transforming the way we approach food systems, drawn from the deep roots of mātauranga Māori, scientific innovation, and community resilience.

Our Vision

The Kai Strategy Project aims to revitalise local kai systems with a focus on sustainability and cultural sovereignty. By engaging directly with Māori communities, we’re fostering an environment where local insights and aspirations lead the way. This initiative recognises the intricate challenges of food production, security, and sustainability while promoting a holistic, mana-centred response.

Core Principles

1. Kai Sovereignty: Strengthening Māori leadership in managing kai systems that honour ancestral knowledge and community values.

2. Resilience and Sustainability: Embedding Taiao-centric approaches to ensure our food systems are robust and able to withstand environmental challenges.

3. Collaboration and Community Engagement: Building trust and long-term partnerships, affirming our commitment to communal wellbeing. Our focus is on both Marae, Food System Actors and change-maker communities.

Building Partnerships

Building strong partnerships is essential to our success. We are proud to be partnering with AgResearch and Pūrangakura, with invaluable support from the TOI Foundation. These collaborations enhance our capacity to deliver impactful change and ensure that the Kai Strategy Project thrives within and beyond our community.

During the Engagement phase we will be building an ecosystem of partnerships and networks to connect the dots and celebrate our whananungatanga.

What’s Next?

Through this project, we aim to illuminate pathways that enhance the accessibility and affordability of nutritious food for whānau in Taranaki. By designing a collaborative and transformative model, we’re working to empower communities, develop capacity, and foster a sense of ownership towards kai motuhake.

Stay connected for more updates on how you can get involved and support this community-led journey towards a sustainable and equitable food system in Taranaki. Together, let's grow a future where kai not only sustains but also enriches us all.

Visit the landing page and sign up to keep in the loop.