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On 7 October 2024, the Rautāpatu Foundation hosted a Circular Economy Masterclass at The Devon Hotel in New Plymouth. Designed to deepen understanding of Zero Waste within the framework of the Circular Economy, this event attracted 136 participants, showcasing strong community interest in sustainable practices. The masterclass was proudly sponsored by the New Plymouth District Council (NPDC), whose support was instrumental in making this event a success. The masterclass provided an overview of circular economy principles, engaging business owners, social enterprise representatives, and local iwi members. Attendees were introduced to innovative concepts through plenary sessions with keynote speakers, interactive workshops, and real-world examples of circular businesses. This hands-on approach fostered practical engagement, allowing participants to apply learned theories within their communities. Feedback from the masterclass was overwhelmingly positive, with participants reporting a 100% increase in their understanding of the Circular Economy. Moreover, a striking 94% recognised the event's commitment to Zero Waste, emphasising the foundation’s dedication to sustainability. This masterclass not only facilitated community learning but inspired attendees to think creatively about circularity from the showcase of enterprise and international examples, equipping them with the tools necessary for implementing circular economy principles effectively in their local contexts. Original Event Information Original Event Programme

The He Kāhui Mano Tribal Summit, held on the 8th and 9th of October 2024, at Te Whare Hononga, marked a significant moment for indigenous communities in New Zealand. This two-day event aimed to reimagine the future through a unified approach to circular economy practices influenced by Māori perspectives. The summit was made possible thanks to the generous support of various sponsors dedicated to advancing community sustainability. Welcoming participants from all over Aotearoa New Zealand, the summit encouraged collaborative discussions through keynote speeches, panel presentations, and breakout sessions focusing on the unique challenges faced by tribal communities. The overarching goals included fostering strategic collaboration and encouraging meaningful dialogue, ultimately striving to promote Zero Waste principles within a positive economy. Results from the summit were impressive, with 100% of participants acknowledging the enhanced understanding of the connection between the Circular Economy and Te Ao Māori. This profound understanding is critical as it links cultural practices with modern sustainability efforts, reflecting a shared commitment to environmental stewardship. Moreover, the initiative aimed at empowering Māori whānau and communities by supporting local solutions to pressing global challenges. As the event concluded, strong interest in ongoing collaboration was evident, with many participants expressing enthusiasm for implementing similar initiatives in their own communities. Both the Circular Economy Masterclass and the He Kahui Mano Summit highlight the Rautāpatu Foundation's commitment to building sustainable practices rooted in community knowledge and cultural values, ensuring that local voices are heard and integrated into the broader dialogue on our collective responsibility to one another and te Taiao. Original Event Information Original Event Programme Day One | Day Two

Feb 2025: FONTAGRO Delegation Visits Rautāpatu in Taranaki   In an exciting development for global agricultural collaboration, the FONTAGRO delegation, comprising Jorge Juan Ganoza Roncal from Peru and Eugenia Saini from Argentina, visited us in Taranaki. Their trip was part of a larger mission to foster partnerships and share agricultural innovation across continents with Aotearoa, NZ. The group was also accompanied by representatives from the Ministry of Primary Industries.   The delegation was warmly welcomed with a pōwhiri at Katere ki te Moana Marae followed by home-grown kai and wonderful kōrero, wānanga and site visits here in New Plymouth and in South Taranaki. FONTAGRO is described as a unique sustainable co-financing mechanism for the development of agricultural technology in Latin America, the Caribbean, and Spain, and establishes a forum for the discussion of priority issues of technological innovation.   Jorge Juan Ganoza Roncal, Vice President of FONTAGRO and head of INIA Peru, brings extensive expertise in managing water, forestry, and agricultural projects. His participation underscored the importance of international collaboration in advancing sustainable agriculture. Ganoza Roncal’s experience working with Irrigation User Organisations provides a strategic perspective on strengthening agricultural resilience through shared knowledge and resources.   Eugenia Saini, the Executive Secretary of FONTAGRO, is renowned for her 25 years of experience in promoting agribusiness and sustainable development. A recipient of a Fulbright scholarship and a fellowship from the Abshire-Inamori Leadership Academy, Saini’s presence emphasised FONTAGRO’s commitment to bolstering strategic alliances and enhancing investment in agriculture. Her leadership is instrumental in driving initiatives that aim to improve the livelihoods of farmers globally.   During their visit, the delegation explored opportunities for collaboration between Indigenous communities and Latin American countries. These discussions focused on elevating indigenous wisdom, improving pastoral systems, advancing agricultural research, and supporting shared objectives. This initiative aligns with both Rautāpatu and FONTAGRO’s mission to bolster climate-smart agricultural practices and innovative solutions across borders to build a resilient future.   The visit highlighted the shared values and mutual respect between Indigenous communities and the FONTAGRO representatives, emphasising cultural exchange as a cornerstone of their cooperation. This cultural diplomacy, coupled with strategic agricultural discussions, leaves a promising prospect for new projects and partnerships that can drive innovation and sustainability in agriculture.   As the delegation continues its journey, this visit with Rautāpatu stands as a testament to the power of collaboration in addressing global challenges in agriculture. FONTAGRO’s engagement with New Zealand’s indigenous and scientific communities marks a significant step towards enhanced agricultural resilience and sustainability. We are excited to build on the relationship and form long-term partnerships in Latin America, Caribbean and Europe.

At Rautāpatu, we want to take a moment to thank Te Kura Waenga o Ngamotu (Central School, New Plymouth) for the lovely letters of appreciation. Glen has been doing an incredible job working with students of all ages and their whānau in the school maara (garden).   Over the years, Glen has helped with various stages of kumara growing—from planting tipu (slips) to weeding, maintaining, and finally, hauheke (harvesting). The students have learned so much about where their food comes from and how to care for the whenua (land) and te Taiao.   We were thrilled to be invited to the school’s Matariki hangi, where the students proudly served food that they grew themselves. It was wonderful to see their faces light up with joy and pride in sharing their hard work with the school community.   This partnership has not only taught valuable gardening skills but has also brought everyone closer together. We’re excited to continue this journey with Te Kura Waenga o Ngāmotu and look forward to seeing what the students will achieve next in their garden!

Sunflower at Katere ki te Moana marae We are thrilled to reflect on the enriching experiences shared during our wānanga today, where whānau united to deepen our understanding and commitment to the Te Taiao kaupapa. This gathering was not just a hui; it was a celebration of our collective journey and the unique narratives that drive our passion for restoring the mana and mauri to our whenua- particularly through land-management use change and transforming kai and wai systems as paramount in the journey. At the heart of our korero was a shared commitment to effectively addressing critical issues related to wai (water) and kai (food systems) as we transition towards a low-emissions future. Participants engaged in meaningful conversations that highlighted the strategic advantages of pooling our resources and insights. By coming together, we are empowered to tackle challenges more effectively, reinforcing our collective resilience and enhancing our decision-making processes. Some key takeaways from the wānanga included a renewed dedication to the principles of Te Taiao. This shared commitment serves as our guiding light, ensuring that our efforts remain focused on nurturing our environment and supporting sustainable practices. The power of a united strategy was also evident; by working collaboratively, we can leverage our combined strengths and perspectives to develop innovative solutions that align with our aspirations. As we move forward, the insights gathered during the wānanga will be invaluable in shaping our framework and fostering an environment where collaborative efforts can thrive. Together, we are committed to building local resilience and supporting solutions that benefit our entire region. We extend our heartfelt thanks to all participants for their contributions and for reaffirming our shared vision. The journey does not end here; rather, it marks the beginning of an exciting chapter in our collective commitment to Te Taiao. Let us continue to support one another as we work towards a sustainable and nourishing future for generations to come. For updates on our initiatives, and stay connected, here . Together, we are creating a legacy of care, commitment, and connection to our land!

Earth Day 2025 - Our Power, Our Planet Today we celebrate 55 years of Earth Day — a moment to reflect on our collective journey in protecting te Taiao (the environment) and to renew our commitment to sustainable practices. This year’s theme, "Our Power, Our Planet," holds particular significance for us here in Aotearoa New Zealand, where the values of kaitiakitanga guide us in caring for our land, sea, and sky. Across the country, communities are embracing renewable energy, striving to triple clean electricity generation by 2030. This ambitious goal aligns with our shared responsibility to combat climate change and ensure a thriving future for generations to come. Initiatives like those led by Rautāpatu exemplify this spirit, combining Te Ao Māori perspectives with innovative solutions that promote a circular economy. Their work is a powerful reminder of the value of indigenous leadership in shaping a sustainable path forward. Today, we also celebrate the inspiring discussions held at the He Kāhui Mano Tribal Summit, where leaders explored how to integrate cultural authenticity and environmental stewardship. These conversations echo the message of Earth Day: that we hold the power to create a harmonious future when we act together. Let's acknowledge the small and large steps we can take to protect our environment. From installing solar panels to supporting local regenerative agriculture, or even reducing single-use plastics in our daily lives, every action counts. For practical tips and inspiration, explore Earth Day resources at Earth Day Activities & Resources. Earth Day reminds us that our choices today shape the future of our planet. By embracing the theme, "Our Power, Our Planet," let us stand together as guardians of Papatūānuku, ensuring a legacy of care, resilience, and balance for all who call this world home.

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 Kai Sovereignty: Strengthening Māori leadership in managing kai systems that honour ancestral knowledge and community values. Resilience and Sustainability: Embedding Taiao-centric approaches to ensure our food systems are robust and able to withstand environmental challenges. 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.

Spring in Taranaki is a time of renewal, the whenua breathes, the gardens stir, and the urge to declutter rises with the sun. From 2–6 September, Zero Waste Week  invites us to do more than clean out the garage. It’s a chance to reimagine our relationship with waste, rethink what we consume, and reconnect with the values of kaitiakitanga  and whanaungatanga that underpin sustainable living. Zero Waste Week isn’t about perfection. It’s about progress. It’s about asking: What can I do, right here, right now, to reduce waste and restore balance?   Whether you’re a household, a business, a kura, or a marae, small changes, made consistently, ripple outward. They shape habits, shift systems, and strengthen communities. 🌿 What Does “Zero Waste” Really Mean? At its heart, zero waste  is a philosophy that aims to redesign the way we produce and consume. It’s not just about recycling - it’s about refusing , reducing , reusing , repairing , and rethinking . It’s about closing the loop so that resources are valued, not discarded. In te ao Māori, this thinking is deeply embedded. The concept of kaitiakitanga  reminds us that we are guardians of the natural world, not owners. Waste is not just a physical problem it’s a relational one. When we waste, we disconnect from whakapapa, from the whenua, and from each other. 🧺 Everyday Actions That Add Up You don’t need to overhaul your life overnight. Here are practical, achievable actions  you can take during Zero Waste Week, and beyond: 🥕 In the Kitchen Start a kai audit : Track what food gets thrown out and why. Are you overbuying? Forgetting leftovers? Embrace composting : Whether it’s a worm farm, bokashi bin, or backyard pile, composting transforms scraps into soil. Plan meals : Use what you have before buying more. Apps like Love Food Hate Waste NZ  offer great tips. Preserve seasonal produce : Pickling, fermenting, and freezing reduce waste and extend kai life. 🛍️ When Shopping Bring your own containers : Many bulk stores and butchers welcome BYO jars and bags. Choose unpackaged produce : Skip the plastic-wrapped apples, nature already gave them skin. Support local makers : Handmade, durable goods often come with less packaging and more heart. Say no to freebies : Decline promotional items you don’t need, they often end up as clutter. 👕 In Your Wardrobe Host a clothing swap : Gather friends or whānau and trade garments instead of buying new. Learn basic mending : A needle and thread can save a favourite item from landfill. Buy secondhand : Op shops, vintage stores, and online marketplaces are treasure troves. Wash less, air more : Reducing laundry saves water and extends clothing life. 📦 At Work or School Set up a reuse station : Collect folders, pens, and paper that can be reused. Go digital : Reduce printing by using shared drives and online tools. Audit your waste : What’s being thrown out? What could be reused or recycled? Celebrate wins : Share progress with your team or class, it builds momentum. 🌱 Te Ao Māori and Circular Wisdom Zero Waste Week is a powerful moment to uplift indigenous knowledge systems  that have long practiced circularity. In Taranaki, many marae are leading the way, composting food scraps, growing maara kai, and hosting repair workshops. The concept of whakapapa  reminds us that everything has a lineage. When we throw something “away,” we sever that connection. But when we reuse, repair, or return it to the earth, we honour its journey. Consider weaving these ideas into your week: Share pūrākau  about resourcefulness and resilience Host a wānanga  on sustainable kai systems Explore atua connections  to the natural world, like Papatūānuku, Tangaroa, and Haumiatiketike 🔄 Circular Solutions in Taranaki: Rautāpatu Leading the Way In Taranaki, the shift toward zero waste is more than a trend - it’s a movement grounded in whakapapa, community, and climate resilience. At the heart of this transformation is Rautāpatu , a kaupapa Māori-led organisation dedicated to co-creating solutions that honour both people and planet. Rautāpatu’s work is rooted in the belief that indigenous knowledge systems  hold the key to building a truly productive circular economy, one that regenerates rather than extracts, that connects rather than consumes. Through a blend of systems thinking , storytelling , and community engagement , Rautāpatu is helping reshape how we think about waste, value, and responsibility. As part of the Ellen MacArthur Foundation  Community, Rautāpatu contributes to global conversations around circularity while remaining deeply grounded in local action. The organisation’s mahi spans climate strategy, kai sovereignty, and regenerative design, all woven together by the threads of whanaungatanga ,  manaakitanga , and kaitiakitanga. This Zero Waste Week, we invite you to support and amplify this work. Here are some ways to get involved: Learn about circular systems : Explore how whakapapa-based design can transform waste into value Host a kōrero : Bring your whānau, workplace, or marae together to discuss local solutions Share your story : Whether you’re composting, repairing, or rethinking your consumption, your journey matters Support kaupapa Māori-led initiatives : Engage with Rautāpatu’s resources, events, and community mahi Advocate for systems change : Encourage local councils and institutions to embed circular principles in policy and practice Zero waste isn’t just about what we throw away, it’s about what we choose to carry forward. It’s about restoring balance with Te Taiao, uplifting indigenous leadership, and building futures that honour both our ancestors and our mokopuna. 🌏 Global Movement, Local Impact Zero Waste Week is part of a global push to rethink waste. From Plastic Free July  to the International Day of Zero Waste  (30 March), the momentum is growing. But the most powerful changes happen locally. When a kura starts composting, when a whānau switches to reusable nappies, when a business rethinks packaging, that’s where transformation begins. 🧡 Final Thoughts: Progress, Not Perfection Zero Waste Week isn’t about guilt. It’s about empowerment . It’s about seeing waste not as an inevitable byproduct of modern life, but as a design flaw we can fix together. So whether you’re composting for the first time or leading a community initiative, your actions matter. They ripple outward. They inspire others. They restore balance. Let’s make this week count, not just in bins emptied, but in hearts stirred.

As we celebrate World Localisation Day 21 June 2025, the significance of reconnecting with our local resources and cultural practices takes on a deeper meaning, especially for us as indigenous Māori in Taranaki. This year, we are proud to align our celebrations with our ongoing initiatives at Rautāpatu, particularly our Te Taiao Strategy focusing on the circular economy and our upcoming Mana-Centred Food Systems strategy set to launch in July.   Localisation is not just a buzzword; it is a vital approach to building resilient communities. Our intergenerational Te Taiao Strategy emphasises the importance of sustainable practices that honour our ancestors and the natural systems we belong to. By implementing circular economy principles, we aim to create a closed-loop system, minimising waste while maximising the use of local resources. Our charitable initiatives, such as our Maara Kai and Kai Boxes, are crucial components of this strategy. These efforts not only provide fresh, healthy food for whānau but also empower our rangatahi and communities to take an active role in their food production and mātauranga Māori (wisdom).   The creation of free Kai Boxes and gifting of kai, has been a profound joy for us to support families, schools, and community events to access fresh produce, that embodies our commitment to localisation and regenerative practices. These boxes serve as a tangible connection between our people and the land, fostering a sense of belonging and responsibility towards our environment. They encourage sustainable consumption patterns and highlight the importance of seasonal, locally sourced kai (food) within our communities.   As we prepare for the launch of our Mana-Centred Food Systems strategy, we are excited to integrate our teachings and values with modern approaches to food production and distribution. This strategy aligns with the principles of World Localisation Day by advocating for food sovereignty and community resilience. It aims to provide whānau with not only the knowledge of traditional practices but also the tools to thrive in contemporary society.   Engaging with schools and rangatahi is essential for nurturing the next generation of leaders in our local food systems. Through workshops, educational programmes, and hands-on experiences, we are committed to instilling the values of sustainability and localism in young people. This engagement fosters a deeper understanding of our cultural identity, the significance of our land, and the importance of supporting local economies.   As we reflect on our collective journey during World Localisation Day, let us remember that our efforts to localise our food systems and embrace circular practices are rooted in our history as Māori people. By prioritising local solutions and reconnecting with our traditional ways of knowing, we can build a future that respects our heritage while meeting the challenges of today.   Together, we invite you to join us in this vital journey towards sustainability, resilience, and empowerment. Visit Local Futures to learn more about the global movement and continue to engage with our local initiatives. By supporting one another and the environment, we can celebrate our cultural heritage and ensure that our food systems are vibrant and sustainable for generations to come.   Let’s come together as whānau and community, embracing the essence of local, mana-centred food systems, and celebrating the importance of World Localisation Day! #WorldLocalisationDay

Earth Overshoot Day marks the moment when humanity’s demand on ecological resources exceeds what the planet can regenerate in a year. In 2025, that global milestone landed on 24 July , but  New Zealand’s overshoot came even earlier, on 30 April. If everyone in Aotearoa lived like the average Kiwi, we’d need nearly three planets  to sustain our current lifestyle. This isn’t just an environmental issue - it’s about how we design our homes, grow our food, move around, and work together. It’s a call for systemic change and at Rautāpatu, we are answering it with Indigenous leadership, a regenerative mindset, and a circular economy for Aotearoa.   What Overshoot Means and Why It Matters? Overshoot happens when our ecological footprint grows faster than the planet’s ability to replenish resources. When we overshoot, forests, biodiversity, water quality, and climate stability suffer. In New Zealand, factors like energy and transport choices, farming, construction, and urban design shape the footprint. By shifting to renewable energy, smarter land use, circular production, and low-emission transport, New Zealand, and organisations like Rautāpatu, can lead a more resilient, fair path forward.   Rautāpatu: Indigenous Leadership at the Heart of a Circular Economy Rautāpatu is an Indigenous-led organisation that centres Indigenous knowledge to co-create climate, culture, and community solutions. Since 2022, we’ve joined a global movement toward regenerative, distributive economies that work within the living planet’s means. Our name embodies thriving and a commitment to addressing colonial harms; over the next decade, we aim to reverse climate change, strengthen communities, and grow a productive circular economy. This vision guides our five pathways and our practice of Te Taiao, the living environment, through partnerships, knowledge, and innovation.   Five Pathways That Shape Our Strategy (2024–2029) Our Taiao Strategy centres on five interconnected pathways, each rooted in Indigenous values and aimed at systemic change: Te Taiao: Place the living environment at the centre of decisions, honouring the link between people, land, and kai (food). This pathway anchors Te Ao Māori perspectives and ecological stewardship. Circular Economy: Reduce waste, reuse materials, and grow a network of circular businesses that reveal new revenue streams and sustainable models. Kai Resilience: Strengthen food systems to improve resilience, transform how kai is grown, moved, eaten, and disposed of—now and for the future. Partnership Development: Build deep partnerships with whānau, hapū, businesses, NGOs, and government to accelerate system-wide change and share knowledge and practice. Mātauranga Māori and Innovation: Elevate Indigenous knowledge alongside science to drive innovative, culturally responsive solutions.   From Strategy to Action: Five-year Focus and Concrete Objectives Over the next five years, we’ll turn these pathways into practical outcomes: Profitability through Circularity: Develop new revenue streams and business models (e.g., product-as-a-service) that align with circular principles and benefit the local economy. Resource Recovery: Reduce organic waste and increase recycling and reuse, cutting reliance on single-use products in food systems and on whenua inputs. Kai Resilience: Create regenerative landscapes and transform kai production, transport, and consumption for lasting resilience. Māori-Agri-Business and Food/Fibre Sector Transformation: Lead climate-smart farming and industry practices to lower emissions and strengthen community resilience. These pathways sit within a broader network of partnerships and system thinking across the supply chain, staying true to our core values and the founders’ vision. (Source: Business Plan, 2024–2029)   Why This Matters for New Zealand: The Numbers Behind the Need for Change New Zealand’s overshoot reality highlights the urgency of systemic change. Examples from 2025 include high consumer spending signalling strong demand for goods and services that drive resource use and waste without circular practices. The construction sector accounts for roughly half of landfill waste in NZ, underscoring the scale of change needed in materials reuse and waste reduction. NZ also has one of the highest residential floor areas per person, raising material and energy demands, while transport—especially private cars—remains a major emissions source. Agriculture adds pressure with methane and nutrient runoff. Our work offers place-based, practical responses that centre Indigenous knowledge and collaborative governance. (Source: Business Plan, 2024–2029)   Turning the Tide: Practical Paths Forward for Aotearoa To reverse overshoot, New Zealand can rethink urban design, energy, food systems, and circular business models. Rautāpatu’s approach aligns with this direction through: Accelerating renewable energy adoption and electrifying transport, supported by Indigenous-led partnerships and community-driven projects. Supporting regenerative agriculture and reforesting native ecosystems to restore soil health, water quality, and biodiversity. Designing compact, efficient cities with strong public transport to reduce energy intensity and waste. Shifting toward plant-based diets and reducing food waste, while expanding circular value chains in the food and fibre sectors. Embedding circular economy principles through education, training, and a network of collaborators to scale Indigenous enterprise and knowledge sharing.   Aotearoa is at a crossroads, and we need a path forward rooted in Te Taiao in order to reverse the overshoot requires bold, systemic change reimagining how we design cities, manage land, and govern resources. It also calls for a cultural shift that centres Te Taiao, kaitiakitanga (guardianship), and reciprocity, so Indigenous knowledge and science can co-create resilient, regenerative futures. Elevating these values in policy, education, and everyday practice can position Aotearoa as a global leader in a truly regenerative economy.   Join Us on the Journey If you share our commitment to Indigenous-led, circular, regenerative economy, we’d love to talk. Rautāpatu is building partnerships with communities, businesses, and government to accelerate practical, scalable solutions that protect people and the planet. Learn more at rautapatu.nz and reach out to discuss collaborations, co-designs, or opportunities to implement regenerative principles in your organisation.

Repair Festival Aotearoa NZ: Celebrating Community, Sustainability, and Innovation 6-14 September 2025 At Rautāpatu, we are committed to elevating indigenous values and kaupapa Māori principles into innovative thinking that nurtures sustainability, community, and cultural strength. The upcoming Repair Festival Aotearoa NZ perfectly embodies this kaupapa, offering a powerful example of how traditional values and modern innovation can intersect to care for people, taonga, and the environment. From 6 to 14 September 2025, communities across Aotearoa New Zealand will come together for this week-long celebration that encourages us to rethink consumption, honour the value of repair, and celebrate the skill and mana of those who mend what is broken. At the heart of Repair Festival Aotearoa is a movement to elevate the practice of repair as a way to reduce waste, extend the life of treasured possessions, and strengthen community connections. The festival brings together grassroots communities, passionate volunteer experts, progressive businesses, and forward-thinking local councils. It is a perfect expression of whanaungatanga — nurturing ties between people through shared purpose and collective action. Repair cafés and pop-up events will be held nationwide, where people can bring in broken or damaged items, from electronics and appliances to clothing and furniture, for free repair or advice. These events are powered by local volunteers, experts, and craftspeople who generously share their skills to breathe new life into items otherwise destined for landfill. This festival aligns with Rautāpatu's commitment to elevating indigenous values within innovative thinking frameworks. Repair Festival Aotearoa offers a model for sustainable living grounded in care, respect, and reciprocity—for people, objects, and the environment. By embracing repair, we honour the stories embedded in objects and keep the circular flow of resources vibrant and alive. We encourage everyone in our Rautāpatu whānau and wider community to participate — whether by attending events, volunteering skills, or simply embracing the repair mindset in everyday life. Together, we can take practical steps toward a more sustainable and connected future, inspired by kaupapa Māori principles and innovative, regenerative thinking. For details on specific events near you, visit the official Repair Festival Aotearoa website. Let’s repair, renew, and reimagine a future where less is wasted and more is re-used. Kia kaha ki te whakangāhau i te taunakitanga me te kaitiakitanga o tō tātou ao.

The 8th edition of the Adaptation Futures Conference [AF2025] is set to take place in Ōtautahi Christchurch, from 13 to 16 October 2025. This global event is being organised by the University of Canterbury Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha, in collaboration with partners from Oceania and beyond. Recognized as the leading conference under the United Nations World Adaptation Science Programme [WASP] , Adaptation Futures serves as a vital platform for advancing climate change adaptation. The gathering brings together a diverse mix of professionals; policy experts, researchers, academics, and practitioners from around the world to exchange ideas, build partnerships, and spark innovation in the field of climate resilience. Rautāpatu Foundation is proud to be participating in three components of the conference: A Paper Presentation, an interactive workshop, and a poster display. Monday to Wednesday Poster Presentation An introduction to our kaupapa Monday 13th October 1.30 - 3.30 Session Indigenous Innovation and Leadership - Intergenerational Learning Bry and Glen will make a Paper Presentation about Indigenous Wisdom Guides Contemporary Climate Adaptation Strategies Tuesday 14th October 8am - 10am Session Health, Wellbeing, and Future Generations - Health Service Delivery Bry and Glen will facilitate an interactive He Kawa Ora: Empowering Personal and Community Renewal Through Indigenous Healing Frameworks workshop You can download a copy of the interactive programme here .