Growing skills. Building confidence. Strengthening communities.
A place to grow, connect and thrive
Since 1985, Earth Gardens has worked alongside people living with disabilities, mental health conditions, addictions and other life challenges. We support them to learn new skills, build confidence and find belonging in ways that reflect who they are and what matters to them.
Through hands-on garden-to-plate learning and purposeful mahi, we provide a safe, supportive space where everyone can flourish.
We are based in Meeanee, Napier, and support people living across Hawke's Bay.
What we do
Everything we do supports our participants to grow strong roots and flourish, building real-world skills, confidence, and connection. At Earth Gardens we:
Teach practical garden-to-plate life skills - from gardening, tool care, and lawn mowing to cooking, preserving, meal preparation and much more
Build confidence and belonging - in a safe and supportive environment
Grow together - sharing knowledge, connection and kai
Care for the land - through kaitiakitanga and sustainable practices
Our approach
Our mahi is guided by:
Enabling Good Lives – putting people at the centre, supporting choice, and strengthening whānau connections.
Te Whare Tapa Whā – caring for the whole person: body, mind, spirit, whānau, and whenua.
Kaitiakitanga – looking after the land and each other for future generations.
Funders
Supporters
Who are our services for?
Our participants - ngā tāngata ka whai wāhi
(the people who take part/are involved) are:
Aged 16 to 64
Aotearoa NZ Citizens or Permanent Residents
Have a disability or health challenge that impacts their ability to work
On a Work and Income benefit
Have an interest in hands-on learning in a productive garden setting
Referrals are welcomed from Health Professionals, MSD, ACC, Oranga Tamariki and other NGOs. We also consider whanau/family and self-referrals - please contact us to find out more.