A year-long focus on sustainability has culminated in the opening of a new vegetable garden at Te Puna Kindergarten, marking a milestone in its Enviroschools journey.

Head teacher Ellen White said in a statement to SunLive, that the project reflects the kindergarten’s deepening commitment to environmental learning, alongside culture, diversity and community connection.

The garden was officially opened on June 16 during a celebration with whānau, community members and Enviroschools representatives, who presented the kindergarten with a certificate recognising its work over the past year.

White said the Enviroschools kaupapa goes beyond simple environmental actions.

“For us as an Enviroschool kindergarten, it is much more than simply picking up rubbish from Papatūānuku,” she said.

“It is about embracing sustainability, culture, diversity, empowerment and community.”

Over the past year, the teaching team has explored how the five Enviroschools principles – respect for diversity, empowerment, learning for sustainability, sustainable communities and Te Ao Māori – are embedded across their practices, places, programme and people.

Te Puna Kindergarten marks a year of sustainability learning with the opening of its community-built vegetable garden on June 16. Photo / Supplied

The vegetable garden emerged as a key project, with tamariki, whānau and teachers working together to design and plan the space.

Sustainability was central to the build, with a focus on using recycled materials.

Old kiwifruit posts and fencing were sourced with support from the Takitimu North Link Project, while additional materials were donated by members of the community, including corrugated iron repurposed from a local shed project.

Local contractor Kopi That Construction provided the design and built the garden beds in early June, with children closely involved in observing the process.

White said the project highlights the strength of community collaboration.

“This has truly been a community project,” she said.

A new vegetable garden at Te Puna Kindergarten has been officially opened, showcasing the centre’s commitment to sustainability and Enviroschools principles. Photo / Supplied

The opening ceremony included a whakataukī and karakia led by local rangatira, followed by a ribbon-cutting attended by families and supporters.

White said the garden will now serve as a hands-on learning space where children can grow food, develop practical skills and deepen their understanding of sustainability.

“We are excited to see the garden flourish for years to come,” she said.