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World Decarbonisation Day on 25 June is a global call to accelerate the shift towards a low‑carbon future. For many regions, it is a reminder of the scale of the climate challenge. For Taranaki, it is also a reminder of the opportunity we have to lead meaningful change — grounded in our relationship with te Taiao, our whenua, and our wai. Decarbonisation is often spoken about in technical terms: emissions profiles, energy transitions, carbon budgets. But at its heart, it is about protecting the living systems that sustain us. When we reduce emissions, restore ecosystems, and shift to cleaner ways of living, we are safeguarding the mauri of the taiao for future generations. For Rautāpatu, this kaupapa aligns closely with the work we already support across Taranaki. Our focus is on long‑term, community‑driven change — the kind that strengthens resilience, supports whānau, and honours both mātauranga Māori and contemporary climate science. Decarbonisation is not just about reducing harm; it is about restoring balance. Taranaki is a region in transition. Our history is deeply connected to energy, and our future will be shaped by how we navigate that legacy. From renewable energy innovation to regenerative land practices, from community restoration projects to rangatahi‑led climate initiatives, the region is already demonstrating what a just and sustainable transition can look like. World Decarbonisation Day is a chance to acknowledge that progress and to recommit to the mahi ahead. Every action — whether it is reducing waste, choosing low‑carbon transport, restoring wetlands, or supporting local biodiversity — contributes to a healthier climate and a stronger whenua. These actions also protect our wai, ensuring our rivers, streams, and coastal waters remain vibrant and life‑giving. At Rautāpatu, we remain committed to supporting projects and partnerships that help Taranaki move towards a low‑carbon, climate‑resilient future. Decarbonisation is not a distant global goal; it is a local responsibility, shaped by the choices we make every day. As we mark World Decarbonisation Day, we acknowledge the collective effort required — from whānau, hapū, iwi, community groups, innovators, and organisations across the region. Together, we can build a future where te Taiao thrives and where our people continue to flourish alongside it.

World Environment Day on 5 June is more than a date on the calendar — it is a global reminder that the wellbeing of people and the wellbeing of te Taiao are inseparable. Here in Taranaki, that truth is felt every day. Our whenua, our wai, our ngahere, and our maunga shape who we are, how we live, and the futures we are building for our tamariki. For Rautapatu, this day is an opportunity to reflect on the mahi we do to protect, restore, and uplift the taiao that sustains us. Our work is grounded in the understanding that environmental health and community wellbeing are deeply interconnected. When our whenua thrives, when our wai runs clean and strong, our people thrive too. This year’s World Environment Day theme focuses on land restoration, desertification, and drought resilience — global challenges that also echo locally. While Taranaki is known for its lush landscapes and abundant rainfall, we are not immune to the pressures of climate change, biodiversity loss, and land degradation. The choices we make today will determine the resilience of our ecosystems tomorrow. At Rautapatu, we continue to support initiatives that strengthen the mauri of our natural spaces. Whether it’s backing community‑led restoration projects, enabling rangatahi to connect with environmental kaupapa, or advocating for sustainable land use, our focus remains on long‑term, intergenerational outcomes. We believe in solutions that honour both mātauranga Māori and modern environmental science — approaches that respect the past while preparing for the future. World Environment Day is a reminder that every action counts. Planting a tree, restoring a wetland, reducing waste, supporting local biodiversity — these are not small gestures. They are acts of kaitiakitanga that collectively shape the legacy we leave behind. As we look ahead, Rautapatu remains committed to working alongside whānau, hapū, iwi, and community partners to protect the natural taonga of Taranaki. Te Taiao is not just the environment around us — it is the living system we belong to. Caring for it is a responsibility we all share.

World Bee Day on 20 May is a global moment to recognise the importance of bees and other pollinators in keeping ecosystems healthy and food systems resilient. Although the day began as a tribute to the Slovenian beekeeper Anton Janša, it has grown into an international reminder that the wellbeing of pollinators is closely tied to the wellbeing of people, land, and climate. In Aotearoa, the day resonates strongly because pollination underpins so much of our agriculture, biodiversity, and community food growing. Bees and other pollinators play a vital role in New Zealand’s landscapes. Many of the kai grown here rely on pollination, including kiwifruit, apples, berries, and clover pasture. Pollinators also support the regeneration of native plants such as Kōwhai, Mānuka, and Harakeke. Without them, both cultivated and wild ecosystems would struggle to thrive. You can explore the kaupapa behind the day through World Bee Day. Pollinators face a range of pressures across Aotearoa and the world. Habitat loss reduces the diversity of flowering plants they rely on. Pesticide exposure can weaken or kill colonies. Climate change disrupts flowering seasons and food availability. Diseases and pests such as Varroa add further strain. Monoculture farming limits the variety of plants available for foraging. These challenges highlight the need for communities, growers, and households to take action. You can learn more about these issues through habitat loss, pesticide impacts, climate effects, Varroa mite, and monoculture farming. There are many ways people in Aotearoa can support pollinators. Planting a variety of flowering species, including herbs, wildflowers, and natives, provides food throughout the seasons. Avoiding pesticides, especially during flowering, protects bees from harmful exposure. Supporting organic growers strengthens farming systems that nurture biodiversity. Creating habitat, whether through leaving wild corners in the garden or building a bee hotel, offers safe nesting spaces. Buying local honey helps sustain ethical beekeepers. You can explore these ideas through planting for pollinators, bee‑friendly gardening, organic farming, bee hotels, and local honey. Taranaki has a strong culture of community growing, and this plays an important role in supporting pollinators across the region. At Rautāpatu, even though we do not keep bees on site, our māra and community gardens contribute meaningfully to the wider taiao and ecological network that sustains pollinating insects. The diversity of plantings, the seasonal flowering, and the commitment to chemical‑free growing create small but powerful pockets of habitat and kai sources that help pollinators thrive. These spaces also bring people together to learn, share kai, and reconnect with the rhythms of te taiao. Through our gardens, our programmes, and the work of our charitable foundation, Rautāpatu helps nurture both land and community, embodying the spirit of World Bee Day in a uniquely Taranaki way. World Bee Day is ultimately a celebration of connection. Pollinators remind us that even the smallest creatures can have a profound impact on the health of our environment. By caring for the plants, gardens, and landscapes around us, we help ensure that bees and other pollinators continue to flourish. In return, they help sustain the kai we grow, the ecosystems we depend on, and the communities we belong to.

Organic Week Aotearoa, held every year from 1–10 May, is New Zealand’s biggest celebration of organic living, a time when growers, gardeners, food lovers, and communities come together to explore how healthy soil creates healthy food and healthy people. Led by the Soil & Health Association of New Zealand, the week features a vibrant programme of webinars, interviews, workshops, film screenings, and in‑person events designed to make organic knowledge accessible to everyone. From understanding the magic of dung beetles to decoding food labels, Organic Week offers practical, science‑backed insights into how our food systems work — and how we can support them through everyday choices. Sessions such as What’s Behind the Label?, gut‑health interviews, and the popular Online Organic Café help connect people with experts, growers, and each other. What Happens During Organic Week? Online webinars on soil health, regenerative farming, food labels, and gut health Interviews with farmers, scientists, and food advocates Organic Field Days where growers open their gates to the public Film screenings, including documentaries on regenerative agriculture Workshops on composting, gardening, and sustainable living Community events and wānanga hosted across the motu by local organisations and growers, including our own Glen Skipper AKA The Kūmara Guy These events help deepen understanding of how organic practices protect biodiversity, reduce pollution, and build resilience in our food systems. Spotlight on Taranaki: Local Events & Community Leadership Taranaki plays a standout role in Organic Week and the wider organic movement. The region is home to award‑winning initiatives such as Te Māra Hapori o Parihaka, which won Community Garden of the Year, and the Taranaki Farmers’ Market, recognised as Farmers’ Market of the Year for its commitment to local organic produce. While Organic Week’s national programme is largely online, Taranaki’s sustainability community, including our Rautāpatu Foundation, Sustainable Taranaki, local growers, community gardens, and markets, regularly hosts in‑person workshops, garden tours, crop swaps, and educational events throughout the year that align with Organic Week’s kaupapa. Events such as The Big Kai Redesign, the Revive Taranaki Expo, SeedSavers workshops, and Sustainable Backyards activities offer hands‑on learning in composting, seed saving, soil health, and regenerative gardening. These gatherings strengthen community connections and showcase the region’s leadership in sustainable, organic living. Why Organic Week Matters Organic Week is more than a calendar event, it’s a reminder that the choices we make every day shape the health of our soil, waterways/wai, climate, and communities. By learning from growers, supporting local markets, and reconnecting with the whenua, New Zealanders help build a kai system that is resilient, regenerative, and fair. Whether you’re an experienced organic grower or simply curious about where your kai comes from, Organic Week offers inspiration, practical skills, and a sense of belonging within a nationwide movement.

International Mother Earth Day, observed every year on 22 April, is more than a date on the calendar. It is a reminder from the United Nations that the Earth is not simply a resource to be used, but a living system that sustains every aspect of human life. The UN established this observance in 2009 to promote harmony with nature and to recognise that the health of the planet and the wellbeing of people are inseparable. In recent years, the urgency behind this message has only intensified. The UN reports that around one million plant and animal species are now threatened with extinction, a rate of loss unprecedented in human history. Forests continue to disappear at a staggering pace, with an estimated ten million hectares lost every year. Oceans are warming and acidifying, extreme weather events are becoming more frequent, and pollution is infiltrating even the most remote ecosystems. These global trends are not abstract warnings; they are signals that the systems supporting life on Earth are under strain. International Mother Earth Day encourages countries to confront these realities honestly and to rethink the economic models that have contributed to environmental decline. It calls for a shift away from extractive, linear systems and toward regenerative, circular ones that restore ecosystems rather than deplete them. In Aotearoa New Zealand, this message resonates deeply. Environmental stewardship is woven into the cultural fabric of the country, particularly through Mātauranga Māori — the Indigenous knowledge system that views people and the natural world as interconnected. The concept of kaitiakitanga , or guardianship, emphasises responsibility, reciprocity, and long‑term thinking. It recognises that when the land and waters are healthy, the people are healthy. This worldview aligns closely with the principles behind International Mother Earth Day and offers a powerful framework for addressing modern environmental challenges. New Zealand has taken globally recognised steps to embed this perspective into law. The granting of legal personhood to Te Urewera, the Whanganui River (Awa Tupua), and Taranaki Maunga represents a profound shift in how natural entities are valued and protected. These legal arrangements acknowledge the intrinsic rights of ecosystems and ensure that decision‑making reflects both ecological needs and cultural relationships. Internationally, these models are seen as pioneering examples of how Indigenous knowledge and modern governance can work together to protect the natural world. Despite these achievements, New Zealand faces significant environmental pressures. The country’s biodiversity is among the most threatened in the world, with thousands of native species at risk. Freshwater ecosystems are under stress from pollution, sedimentation, and habitat loss. Climate change is intensifying droughts, storms, and coastal erosion, affecting communities from Northland to Southland. Waste emissions remain a growing concern, with the waste sector contributing millions of tonnes of greenhouse gases each year. These challenges underscore the importance of days like International Mother Earth Day, which encourage reflection, accountability, and collective action. At the same time, there is a growing movement across Aotearoa to restore and regenerate the environment. Community groups are planting native forests, restoring wetlands, monitoring waterways, and protecting wildlife. Councils and iwi are collaborating on climate adaptation plans. Businesses are exploring circular economy models that reduce waste and conserve resources. Schools are teaching students about ecological resilience and sustainable living. These efforts, while diverse, share a common thread: a belief that the future can be different from the past if we choose to act with intention. International Mother Earth Day is an opportunity to celebrate these efforts and to recognise the role that every person, organisation, and community plays in shaping the health of the planet. It invites New Zealanders to honour the relationship between people and place, to listen to the wisdom of Indigenous knowledge, and to commit to actions that support a thriving, resilient Earth. It is a reminder that environmental protection is not a task for governments alone but a shared responsibility that begins with the choices we make every day. Ultimately, this day is about hope — not a passive hope, but an active one. It is the hope that comes from planting a tree, restoring a river, reducing waste, or teaching the next generation to care for the world around them. It is the hope that emerges when communities come together to protect the places they love. And it is the hope that, even in the face of global challenges, humanity can choose a path that honours the Earth as the living, breathing home it has always been.

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.