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Taranaki’s kai landscape is rich, diverse, and full of potential — upheld by whānau, hapū, marae, growers, producers, innovators, and community champions who care deeply about the wellbeing of our people and our environment. Now, through The Big Kai Redesign , we have a unique opportunity to weave all of this incredible mahi together into a collective, mana-centred regional strategy. Today, we’re excited to announce a major milestone in this journey: Our region-wide community survey is now open and available to complete online. This survey is one of the most important tools in our engagement process. It’s your chance to share your experiences, aspirations, challenges, and ideas about kai in Taranaki — and to help shape a future where our food systems are sustainable, equitable, culturally grounded, and regenerative. Why Your Voice Matters The Big Kai Redesign is about more than food. It’s about restoring the mana and mauri of our kai systems by strengthening the relationships between people, whenua, wai, and future generations. Our research so far shows that many whānau face barriers to accessing affordable, nourishing kai, while our environment continues to feel the impacts of industrial food systems. By completing the survey, you contribute directly to: Understanding what’s working well — and what isn’t — in our current kai system Identifying opportunities for circular, regenerative, and community-led solutions Helping shape a Mana-Centred Kai Systems Strategy  for Taranaki Ensuring that the voices of whānau, hapū, marae, businesses, and community groups are heard and valued Every response helps us build a clearer picture of the region’s needs, strengths, and aspirations. A Kaupapa Led by Community, Grounded in Mātauranga Māori The Big Kai Redesign is a kaupapa led by The Rautāpatu Foundation, supported by research partners and community organisations who share a commitment to transforming our local kai systems. This work honours mātauranga Māori, circular economy principles, and the deep cultural significance of kai as a taonga that nurtures identity, wellbeing, and connection. Your participation ensures that this transformation is shaped by the people it’s designed for — our communities. How to Get Involved The survey is now available online and open to everyone in Taranaki. Whether you grow kai, buy kai, cook kai, share kai, or simply care about the future of our region, your insights are invaluable . 👉 Complete the survey online now You can also stay involved by joining our wānanga, participating in interviews, encouraging your marae to take part in assessments, or signing up for updates through our newsletter. Together, We Can Reimagine Taranaki’s Kai Future This is your chance to help shape a kai system that: Regenerates our environment Supports thriving whānau Strengthens cultural identity Builds resilience for future generations Reflects the values of mana, sustainability, and circularity We invite you to take a few minutes to complete the survey and be part of this transformative movement. Nau mai, haere mai — your voice will help guide the future of kai in Taranaki.

Every year on 30 March, the world marks the International Day of Zero Waste, a moment to rethink how we produce, consume, and discard. The idea of “zero waste” can sound ambitious, but at its core it’s about redesigning systems so that waste is prevented rather than managed. Instead of treating rubbish as an inevitable by‑product of modern life, the zero‑waste movement asks us to imagine a world where materials circulate, resources are valued, and nothing is casually thrown away. Globally, waste generation is rising faster than population growth, and New Zealand is no exception. According to the Ministry for the Environment, waste emissions made up 3.8% of the country’s gross greenhouse gas emissions in 2023 , with the waste sector producing 4.1 million tonnes of CO₂‑equivalent emissions  that year. These emissions come largely from organic waste breaking down in landfills, releasing methane, a greenhouse gas far more potent than carbon dioxide. Despite progress in some areas, the total amount of waste going to landfill in New Zealand has continued to increase, reflecting both population growth and consumption patterns. The scale of the challenge becomes even clearer when looking at national waste data. New Zealand’s waste facilities report millions of tonnes of material entering landfills each year, with the Ministry for the Environment’s waste dashboard showing ongoing pressure on disposal sites and the need for better diversion systems. While recycling and composting infrastructure has expanded, the country still relies heavily on landfilling, and the environmental cost of this approach is becoming harder to ignore. The International Day of Zero Waste highlights the importance of shifting from a linear economy - where products are made, used, and discarded - to a circular one, where materials are kept in use for as long as possible. This shift is already underway in New Zealand. Community organisations, small businesses, and local councils are experimenting with circular solutions, from repair hubs and resource recovery centres to refill stores and composting initiatives. These efforts reflect a growing recognition that waste is not simply a disposal problem but a design and systems problem. In practice, zero waste is less about perfection and more about progress. It encourages people to rethink everyday habits, choosing durable goods over disposable ones, repairing instead of replacing, and supporting businesses that prioritise reuse and low‑waste packaging. At the same time, it calls on governments and industries to redesign products, improve recycling systems, and invest in infrastructure that keeps materials circulating rather than buried. New Zealand’s journey toward zero waste is still evolving, but the momentum is real. The country’s environmental reporting shows increasing public awareness, stronger community‑led initiatives, and a growing policy focus on circular economy principles. The International Day of Zero Waste serves as a reminder that every step — whether taken by individuals, businesses, or entire regions — contributes to a future where waste is no longer an unavoidable consequence of modern living. Ultimately, zero waste is a hopeful idea. It suggests that with creativity, collaboration, and commitment, we can design systems that regenerate rather than deplete. On 30 March, the world pauses to recognise that possibility, and to recommit to building a future where nothing, not even potential, is wasted.

Taranaki is a region of deep connections, and recently, those connections were made even stronger at Katere ki te Moana Marae . On Saturday, 21 February 2026, the Rautāpatu Foundation hosted the first wānanga of The BIG Kai Redesign . This multi-stage engagement is about more than just food; it is about building a collective, mana-centred regional strategy for Taranaki that supports resilient communities and a thriving local kai system we all feel part of. A Gathering of Many Voices Together with Josh and Mataiva Robertson from Vaimoana we were humbled to have over 30 participants join us, representing a beautiful cross-section of our community. Whānau travelled from across the region—from Te Hāwera, Onaero, Ngāmotu, Inglewood, Welbourn, Moturoa, and Waitara . While our foundations are rooted in Māori values, it was particularly heartening to see a strong presence from our local Pasifika communities . As indigenous peoples the sharing of knowledge, values and "reflecting together" was a highlight for many . One participant noted how much they enjoyed the session because it was grounded in real collaboration rather than just theory. Shifting the Dial The goal for our first wānanga was to introduce basic food system concepts and the importance of mana-centred values. The impact was immediate: Growth in Awareness: Before we started, most participants rated their awareness of "Food Systems" as low to moderate . By the time we finished, 84% of respondents rated their awareness as high or very high . Commitment to Action: Our community is ready to move. 13 out of 19 of those who provided feedback left the marae feeling fully committed to taking action in this redesign project. Values and Visions Throughout the day, we explored what kai means to our culture, the spiritual links of Mana Kai , and the critical importance of knowing our land and growing our own kai . We also heard clearly that our people want more practical ways to link our community resources together . He Rakau- illustrating our values, traditions and aspirations. We had an amazing hākari- fiafia- sharing our kai traditions. We would love you to join us next time! Looking Ahead to Kurahaupō waka We are currently weaving all your feedback into our next steps. We aren't jumping straight to solutions yet, as this is a process of redesigning the whole system. However, the next part of this journey will take us around the coast. Our next wānanga is planned for April 2026 at Te Potaka Marae . We are just confirming the final dates and look forward to continuing this critical mahi with you all. Register your interest here Mā te wā, The Rautāpatu Foundation Team

Every year as summer fades and autumn arrives, Aotearoa turns its attention to the moana. Seaweek , running from late February into early March, is our national celebration of the ocean — a chance to reconnect with the waters that shape our climate, our culture, and our identity. Here in Taranaki , that connection is immediate. The Tasman Sea is never far from sight, sound, or memory. It shapes our weather, our surf culture, our fishing traditions, and the rhythm of daily life along the coast. 🌊 Why Seaweek Exists New Zealand is an ocean nation, and Taranaki is a perfect example of that truth. With a rugged, volcanic coastline and a marine environment rich in life, our region reflects the purpose of Seaweek: Inspiring ocean literacy Encouraging communities to explore and protect local marine areas Highlighting the science behind ocean health Celebrating the cultural significance of the moana From Ōpunake to Ōakura, from the Sugar Loaf Islands to the reefs off Pātea, the Tasman Sea is a living classroom. 🌊 The Tasman Sea: A Wild, Beautiful Neighbour The Tasman Sea off the Taranaki coast is known for its power — long‑period swells, dramatic weather shifts, and deep offshore currents. But it’s also home to: Hector’s dolphins  and common dolphins Fur seals  resting on rocky outcrops Kelp forests  that shelter juvenile fish Seabirds  like gannets, terns, and petrels The Tapuae Marine Reserve , protecting reefs and rocky habitats This stretch of ocean is both resilient and vulnerable. Seaweek is a reminder that even wild places need guardians. 🐟 Why Seaweek Matters for Taranaki The Tasman Sea is facing the same pressures seen across Aotearoa: Warming waters affecting species distribution Plastic pollution washing up on our beaches Declining biodiversity in some coastal areas Stress on fish stocks Loss of kelp and seagrass habitats Local scientists and community groups — from the Taranaki Regional Council to volunteer beach‑clean teams — are working to understand and protect these ecosystems. Seaweek gives us a moment to amplify that work. 🐬 How Taranaki Celebrates Seaweek Seaweek events in Taranaki often include: Beach clean‑ups at Back Beach, East End, and Fitzroy Guided snorkelling around the Sugar Loaf Islands Marine science talks at Puke Ariki or local schools Citizen‑science projects monitoring coastal species Whānau‑friendly coastal activities and art workshops It’s hands‑on, community‑driven, and grounded in the landscapes we know best. 🌱 How You Can Get Involved Even if you’re not right on the coast, you can still honour Seaweek: Reduce single‑use plastics Support local marine conservation groups Learn about the Tapuae Marine Reserve Choose sustainable seafood Share ocean stories or photos from your favourite Taranaki beach Teach kids about the moana and its ecosystems Every action helps protect the waters that define our region. 💙 Why Seaweek Still Matters Seaweek works because it’s grounded in connection, and in Taranaki, that connection is powerful. The Tasman Sea is part of our identity. It shapes our culture, our recreation, our economy, and our sense of place. Celebrating Seaweek is celebrating Taranaki itself.

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

A Mountain That Shapes Us International Mountain Day is a global celebration of the ecosystems, cultures, and communities connected to mountains. For Taranaki, this day is deeply personal. Taranaki Maunga isn’t just a landmark. It’s an ancestor, a compass, a source of identity, and the beating heart of the region. Its forests, rivers, and alpine ecosystems support life across the entire landscape. This day invites us to honour the maunga and reflect on our role as kaitiaki. The Unique Ecology of Taranaki Maunga The maunga is home to an extraordinary range of species and habitats, shifting dramatically as you move from the lowlands to the alpine zone: 🌳 Lowland & Montane Forests Home to kererū, tūī, korimako, and ancient rimu and tōtara. 🌿 Subalpine Shrublands A mosaic of hardy plants adapted to wind, cold, and volcanic soils. ❄ Alpine Herbfields & Mosslands Fragile ecosystems found nowhere else in the region, shaped by ice, ash, and time. 🐦 Rare & Endemic Species Including whio (blue duck), pekapeka (long‑tailed bat), and threatened alpine invertebrates. These ecosystems are precious — and vulnerable. The Pressures Facing the Maunga Like many mountain environments worldwide, Taranaki Maunga faces increasing challenges: Climate change, altering snowlines and seasonal patterns Invasive species, threatening native plants and birds Visitor pressure, especially in summer Erosion, intensified by heavy rainfall events Habitat fragmentation in surrounding lowlands Protecting the maunga means addressing these pressures with care and collaboration. Kaitiakitanga in Action: How Taranaki Is Protecting Its Maunga 🌱 Predator Control & Biodiversity Recovery Community groups and iwi‑led initiatives are restoring birdlife and protecting vulnerable species. 🌿 Native Reforestation Large‑scale planting projects are reconnecting forest corridors and stabilising slopes. 🚶 Sustainable Recreation Track upgrades, visitor education, and responsible tourism practices help reduce environmental impact. How You Can Celebrate International Mountain Day in Taranaki Walk one of the maunga’s many tracks with respect and care Join a predator‑free or planting group Learn the stories and whakapapa of Taranaki Maunga Support conservation organisations working in the region Reduce your impact when visiting — pack in, pack out Share your connection to the maunga with others He Maunga, He Taonga Taranaki Maunga is a living presence that shapes our identity and wellbeing. On International Mountain Day, we celebrate the beauty, the resilience, and the communities who protect it. By caring for the maunga, we care for ourselves, our future, and the generations yet to come.

The Ground Beneath Our Feet: Why Soil Health Matters in Taranaki World Soil Day is a global reminder that the health of our soil underpins the health of everything else — our food systems, our waterways, our biodiversity, and our communities. Here in Taranaki, where rich volcanic soils have shaped generations of growers, farmers, and gardeners, this day carries a special significance. Our whenua is alive. It breathes, transforms, and sustains us. And like any living system, it needs care.   Taranaki’s Volcanic Soils: A Gift and a Responsibility The maunga has shaped our landscape for thousands of years, creating some of the most fertile soils in Aotearoa. These deep, nutrient‑rich volcanic layers support: Dairy and horticulture Native forest regeneration Community māra kai Biodiversity corridors Wetland restoration But even the richest soils can degrade if we don’t look after them.   The Challenges Facing Taranaki’s Soil Despite its natural strength, our region faces growing pressures: Erosion on steep hill country Nutrient runoff affecting rivers and streams Loss of soil carbon from intensive land use Compaction from heavy machinery and livestock Climate change, bringing heavier rain and longer dry spells These issues aren’t abstract — they affect food production, water quality, and the resilience of our ecosystems.   Local Solutions Rooted in Kaitiakitanga Across Taranaki, communities, hapū, farmers, and environmental groups are restoring soil health through practical, grounded action: 🌿 Riparian Planting Thousands of native plants are being added along waterways to stabilise banks, filter runoff, and rebuild soil structure. 🌱 Regenerative Farming Practices More farmers are adopting cover crops, reduced tillage, and diverse pasture mixes to rebuild soil carbon and improve resilience. 🍂 Composting & Organic Waste Recovery Community compost hubs and home composting initiatives are returning nutrients to the soil instead of sending them to landfill. 🌾 Māra Kai & Mātauranga Māori Traditional knowledge guides planting cycles, soil care, and the relationship between people and whenua.   How You Can Celebrate World Soil Day Start a compost system at home or work Plant natives to stabilise soil and support biodiversity Support local growers who prioritise soil health Learn about the soil types in your area Join a community planting or restoration day Reduce chemical use in your garden   Healthy Soil, Healthy Future Soil is more than dirt — it’s a living ecosystem that holds the stories of our past and the potential of our future. On World Soil Day, let’s celebrate the whenua that sustains us and commit to being its guardians. Taranaki thrives when its soil thrives.

In November 2025, the gates of Katere ki te Moana Marae opened for a pōwhiri that marked much more than a three-day event. It was the beginning of a profound journey—a coming together of people from across the globe to share collective wisdom, knowledge, and expertise in support of indigenous-led development. A Circle of Collective Wisdom While the world often looks at development through a narrow, clinical lens, our gathering was built on Whakawhanaungatanga —the intentional process of getting to know one another and sharing our stories. We didn't just bring together local leaders; we sat in a circle with researchers and academics from the Auckland Business School , AgResearch , and international universities like Exeter and Ivey . The goal wasn't to "implement a plan," but to create a space where: Ancestral Knowledge Met Global Science & Economics: We explored how the ancient harakeke industry and cultural narratives of Taranaki could inform modern circular innovation. Relationships Became the Foundation: From shared meals on the deck to evening kōrero and a community hāngi, every moment was about building trust. Expertise Was Gifted, Not Sold: We saw a beautiful exchange of "reverse engineering for our aspirations," where global expertise was offered in service of our regional vision. Soft Launching the Heart of the Big Kai Redesign This wānanga served as the soft launch of The Big Kai Redesign . Rather than launching a strategy, we launched a partnership . We demonstrated that a mana-centred system isn't built on paper; it is built through the relationships between people who are committed to restoring the balance of our food and our land. As we stood together for our final group shot, it was clear that we are no longer working in isolation. We have formed a global whānau dedicated to the same horizon. "Our journey didn't start with a strategy; it started with a karanga—a call for the world’s wisdom to meet our own, so that together, we can weave a future that belongs to all of us." To follow our journey of connection, visit rautāpatu.nz .

On 26 November 2025, the world marks World Sustainable Transport Day , a United Nations observance established in 2023 to highlight the role of safe, affordable, accessible, and sustainable transport in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) . This year’s event is particularly significant as it precedes the launch of the United Nations Decade of Sustainable Transport (2026–2035) . For New Zealand, and organisations like Rautāpatu, working on sustainability, the Day is a chance to reflect on progress, challenges, and the opportunities ahead. Why Sustainable Transport Matters Transport is the backbone of modern society. It connects people to jobs, education, healthcare, and cultural opportunities. It enables trade, tourism, and innovation. Yet, transport is also one of the largest contributors to global greenhouse gas emissions, accounting for nearly 25% of energy-related CO₂ emissions worldwide. The challenge is clear: we must rethink mobility to make it cleaner, safer, and more inclusive. Sustainable transport encompasses: Public transit systems  that are efficient, affordable, and accessible. Active mobility  options like walking and cycling, which improve health and reduce emissions. Low-carbon freight solutions , including rail and shipping innovations. Digital technologies  that optimise traffic flows and reduce congestion. Equitable access , ensuring rural and marginalised communities are not left behind. The Road to the Decade of Sustainable Transport The upcoming Decade of Sustainable Transport (2026–2035)  is a rallying call for governments, businesses, and civil society. It aims to: Raise awareness  of transport’s crucial role in sustainable development. Mobilise resources and partnerships  to accelerate innovation. Support evidence-based policymaking , ensuring decisions are grounded in data. Strengthen regional cooperation , particularly in areas like Asia-Pacific where rapid urbanisation and economic growth demand smarter mobility solutions. New Zealand’s Transport Transition New Zealand’s transport sector contributes nearly 17–19% of national greenhouse gas emissions. The government has committed to reducing transport emissions by 41% by 2035 and achieving net zero by 2050. Key initiatives include: Budget 2025 investments  in rail, roads, airports, and maritime safety. Zero Carbon Act strategies  promoting public transport, cycling, and electric vehicles. Waka Kotahi programmes  expanding walking and cycling infrastructure. Community engagement  through local councils and NGOs, from cycleways in Christchurch to low-emission bus fleets in Wellington. At Rautapatu, we support these transitions by promoting awareness of sustainable transport options, partnering with local organisations to encourage cycling and walking, and providing resources that help communities understand the link between transport and climate resilience. Active Mobility Cycling and walking are gaining traction as sustainable options: Cycling infrastructure  is expanding, with dedicated bike lanes and eco-friendly materials. Integration with public transport  is being prioritised, ensuring seamless connections between buses, trains, and cycleways. Health and equity benefits : Active mobility reduces emissions while improving public health and accessibility for lower-income households. Rautapatu champions active mobility by running community workshops, supporting councils in designing inclusive systems, and sharing stories of individuals and communities who have embraced walking and cycling as part of their daily lives. Linking Transport to Climate Action Transport is central to climate policy. Without decisive action, emissions from this sector could rise by 60% by 2050. Sustainable transport strategies directly contribute to climate resilience: Electrification of vehicles  powered by renewable energy. Modal shifts  from cars to buses, trains, and bicycles. Green freight corridors  that reduce emissions from shipping and trucking. Urban planning  that minimises travel distances and promotes compact cities. Rautāpatu advocates for stronger climate policies that prioritise sustainable transport. Our work includes publishing accessible guides on how individuals and businesses can reduce their transport footprint, and collaborating with schools and community groups to embed sustainability into everyday travel choices. Partnerships for Progress No single actor can achieve sustainable transport alone. Partnerships are essential: Governments  must set ambitious policies and invest in infrastructure. Private sector innovators  can develop new technologies, from electric buses to smart logistics. Civil society organisations  play a role in advocacy and awareness. International bodies like ESCAP  provide platforms for cooperation and knowledge-sharing. Rautāpatu contributes by fostering local partnerships, ensuring that Māori and Pasifika voices are included in transport planning, and advocating for resilient infrastructure in coastal communities. Raising Awareness: The Role of World Sustainable Transport Day World Sustainable Transport Day is more than a date on the calendar. It is a global awareness campaign that inspires action at every level. Activities include: Educational programmes  highlighting the benefits of sustainable mobility. Community events  such as car-free days, bike rallies, and public transport fairs. Policy dialogues  bringing together stakeholders to discuss solutions. Multimedia campaigns  showcasing success stories and innovations. By engaging citizens, policymakers, and businesses, the Day builds momentum for the Decade ahead. Looking Ahead: A Vision for 2035 What might the world look like at the end of the Decade of Sustainable Transport in 2035? Imagine: Cities where electric buses glide silently  through clean air. High-speed rail networks connecting regions efficiently. Streets dominated by cyclists and pedestrians , not traffic jams. Freight systems powered by green hydrogen and smart logistics . Universal access to affordable transport, bridging divides between rural and urban communities. At Rautāpatu, we imagine a future where transport systems are not only sustainable but also culturally grounded, where Māori values of kaitiakitanga (guardianship) guide infrastructure decisions, and where communities feel empowered to shape their mobility choices. Conclusion World Sustainable Transport Day 2025 is a reminder that mobility is more than movement—it is a lifeline for sustainable development. For New Zealand, the Day underscores the urgency of aligning transport with climate goals, cultural values, and community needs. At Rautāpatu, we are proud to support this global initiative. Our work in sustainability - whether through community engagement, advocacy, or education - reflects our belief that transport must serve both people and planet. As the Decade of Sustainable Transport begins, we stand ready to contribute, collaborate, and champion the changes needed to build a cleaner, fairer, and more connected world.

Reimagining Kai for a Stronger, Healthier Community World Food Day is a global call to transform the way we grow, share, and consume food. Here in Aotearoa, that message resonates deeply, especially as communities work to build resilience, reduce waste, and ensure everyone has access to nutritious kai. Our vision The Big Kai Redesign , a community‑driven initiative aiming to reshape how food is grown, distributed, and valued, is not just for today, but for future generations.   What Is the Big Kai Redesign? It's a bold, collaborative project focused on: Strengthening local food systems Reducing food insecurity Supporting whānau to access healthy, affordable kai Empowering communities through shared knowledge and resources Honouring mātauranga Māori in food planning and land use It’s not just a food project, it’s a movement toward long‑term wellbeing.   Why This Matters on World Food Day The theme of World Food Day often centres on sustainability, equity, and resilience, all values deeply embedded in the Rautāpatu approach. In many communities, access to fresh, nutritious kai is uneven. Rising costs, limited transport, and changing climate conditions all affect how people feed their families. The Big Kai Redesign tackles these challenges head‑on by creating systems that are: Local Regenerative Community‑led Culturally grounded   Key Elements of the Big Kai Redesign 🌱 1. Growing Kai Locally Community gardens, marae‑based growing spaces, and shared land use agreements help ensure kai is grown close to where it’s needed. 🤝 2. Sharing Resources Seed libraries, tool banks, and knowledge‑sharing workshops reduce barriers and build collective capability. 🍲 3. Reducing Waste Food rescue partnerships and composting initiatives keep kai out of landfill and redirect it to whānau and soil health. 📦 4. Community‑Centred Distribution Innovative models, from kai hubs to mobile distribution, ensure food reaches people in ways that are dignified and accessible. 🧠 5. Honouring Mātauranga Māori Traditional knowledge guides planting cycles, land stewardship, and community decision‑making.   How to Support the Movement Volunteer at a local kai initiative Donate seeds, tools, or time Attend workshops or community planting days Support local growers and markets Share stories of food resilience in your community   A Future Where Everyone Has Access to Good Kai World Food Day reminds us that food is more than nourishment, it’s connection, culture, and community. The Big Kai Redesign shows what’s possible when people come together with a shared vision for a healthier, more resilient future. It’s a story worth celebrating, and a movement worth supporting.

Guardians of a Living Taonga: Why NZ Wildlife Matters More Than Ever World Wildlife Day is a global moment to celebrate the species that share our planet — but here in Aotearoa, it carries a special weight. Our wildlife is unlike anything else on Earth. After millions of years of isolation, New Zealand became home to birds that forgot how to fly, ancient reptiles that outlived the dinosaurs, and forests that hum with life found nowhere else. Yet these taonga now face some of the greatest pressures in their history. World Wildlife Day is a chance to pause, reflect, and recommit to protecting the species that define us. Aotearoa’s Icons: Species Worth Celebrating 🦜 Kākāpō — The Comeback King Once on the brink of extinction, the kākāpō is now a global conservation success story. Thanks to decades of dedicated work, the population continues to grow — but every chick still counts. 🦎 Tuatara — The Last of Their Kind Often called “living fossils,” tuatara are the only surviving members of an ancient reptile order. They remind us how precious and fragile evolutionary history can be. 🕊 Kererū — The Forest Gardener With their iconic swooping flight and appetite for fruit, kererū play a vital role in regenerating native forests by spreading large seeds no other bird can. 🐬 Māui Dolphin — A Species on the Edge With fewer than 100 individuals remaining, the Māui dolphin is one of the rarest marine mammals in the world. Their survival depends on the choices we make today. The Challenges Our Wildlife Faces Habitat loss  from land development and fragmentation Introduced predators  like stoats, rats, and possums Climate change , which disrupts food sources and breeding cycles Pollution affecting marine and freshwater ecosystems These pressures are real — but so is the momentum for change. How New Zealanders Are Making a Difference Across the motu, communities, iwi, schools, and organisations are stepping up: Predator‑free trapping groups Native planting projects Marine protection advocacy Citizen science monitoring Wildlife rescue and rehabilitation Every action, big or small, contributes to a healthier future for our taonga species. How You Can Celebrate World Wildlife Day Volunteer with a local conservation group Plant native species in your backyard Support wildlife charities Reduce plastic use to protect marine life Learn about the species in your region Share stories of NZ wildlife to inspire others Aotearoa’s Wildlife Is Part of Who We Are Protecting our native species isn’t just about ecology — it’s about identity. These animals are woven into our stories, our culture, and our sense of place. On World Wildlife Day, let’s celebrate them, learn from them, and commit to ensuring they thrive for generations to come.

Rautapatu’s Big Kai Redesign: Honouring the International Day of Awareness of Food Loss and Waste Today, 29 September 2025, marks the International Day of Awareness of Food Loss and Waste (IDAFLW), a global moment to reflect on how we produce, consume, and value food. At Rautāpatu, this kaupapa resonates deeply with our mission to transform food systems through indigenous wisdom, community-led innovation, and sustainable design. As the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) lead international conversations on reducing food loss and waste, we’re proud to contribute to this movement through our Big Kai Redesign . Why This Day Matters Globally, one-third of all food produced is lost or wasted. That’s not just a waste of kai, it’s a waste of whenua (land), wai (water), energy, and mahi (labour). It’s a missed opportunity to nourish our communities and protect our planet. Food waste contributes to climate change, undermines food security, and strains our ecosystems. IDAFLW is a call to action for producers, businesses, consumers, and policymakers to rethink how food flows through our lives—and that’s exactly what we’re doing here at Rautāpatu. Introducing the Big Kai Redesign The Big Kai Redesign is our bold response to the challenge of food waste. It’s a systems-level rethink of how kai is grown, shared, prepared, and valued across Aotearoa. Rooted in mātauranga Māori and guided by principles of circularity, equity, and resilience, this initiative aims to: - 🌱 Reduce food waste at every stage of the supply chain - 🧑‍🍳 Empower whānau and communities with tools for sustainable kai practices - 🛠️ Support local producers and innovators to design waste-free food systems - 🗣️ Advocate for policy change that honours indigenous food sovereignty What’s Happening Today Global leaders will gather to share strategies and stories that inspire action. At Rautāpatu, we’re tuning in, contributing insights, and amplifying the voices of our communities who are already leading the way. We believe that food is more than fuel, it’s whakapapa, connection, and culture. The Big Kai Redesign is about restoring that relationship and ensuring that every bite of kai is respected, shared, and never wasted. How You Can Join Us Whether you’re a grower, eater, educator, or entrepreneur, you have a role to play. Here’s how you can get involved: - 🍽️ Audit your food waste and find creative ways to reduce it - 🧃 Support local producers and regenerative food systems - 📚 Learn about mātauranga Māori approaches to kai and sustainability - 🗣️ Share your ideas and stories with us—your voice matters A Future with No Waste As we observe IDAFLW, we reaffirm our commitment to redesigning food systems that honour people and planet. The Big Kai Redesign is not just a project, it’s a movement. And it starts with us. Let’s make every meal a moment of care, connection, and transformation.