Across Tāmaki Makurau, Eco-Neighbourhoods are bringing neighbours together to make a difference for the environment whilst having fun doing it. These community-driven initiatives connect like-minded people through workshops, activities, and shared projects that promote sustainable living.

Anitha Pattery picking up seedlings from PVA Ko’anga

High School Teacher and PVA Waste Champion Caragh Doherty has been leading several Eco-Neighbourhoods groups in Ōtara-Papatoetoe from 2023. One of the groups and highlights has been the Tupu Garden Crew at Tupu Youth Library Ōtara led by Librarian Anitha Pattery. This year from July to September, 15-18 local tamariki have attended afterschool sessions, focusing on harvesting, weeding, planting, and even installing a new bird bath! The children also contributed to the design of a new garden sign, which they hope to reveal at their end of year celebration.

In September the Aroha Elderly Group enjoyed a vegetarian cooking class organised by Caragh. Fellow PVA kaimahi Jay and Raju who are are passionate vegetarian cooks led the class sharing flavoursome and low cost recipes that make use of seasonal produce. Participants were hands on making delicious vegetarian recipes while learning practical ways to live lightly. From seasoned rice pilav to hearty rajma masala and refreshing riata, it was a delicious journey from start to finish. Beyond cooking, the group shared stories, built relationships, and connected over kai, discovering how healthy, sustainable eating benefits both tinana and te taiao. Continuing their interest for living lightly and health and wellbeing the group has expressed interest to learn about rongoā Māori and natural remedies for common ailments in the new year.

Raju & Jay sharing their love and knowledge of vegetarian cooking with the Aroha Elderly Group.

Aroha Elderly Group Vegetarian Cooking Class

Creative expression has also flourished in the Eco Ōtara-Papatoetoe neighbourhoods. The Aorere Kindergarten Group is planning a mural representing past, present, and future aspirations for their local environment. Enthusiasm is high for the Girls Brigade who have plenty of eco-friendly workshop ideas that will be solidified in the new year. Other groups involved in the Ōtara-Papatoetoe Eco-Neighbourhoods project will be followed up in the new year to confirm their next steps, ensuring momentum continues.

Through gardens, kitchens, and creative projects, Eco-Neighbourhoods Ōtara-Papatoetoe are nurturing a sense of community while fostering care for people and planet. Whether planting, cooking, or painting, neighbours are discovering that small actions, shared with others, can grow into lasting change.

Ka mau te wehi - great work Caragh nurturing this kaupapa for Ōtara - Papatoetoe locals.

If you would like to know more about Eco-Neighbourhoods Ōtara-Papatoetoe or have an idea that you would like to discuss please get in touch: 274econeighbourhoods@gmail.com

Eco-Neighbourhoods Ōtara-Papatoetoe: Updates from Hōtoke- Koanga 2025

Know to Sew, with Jay.