The Hindu Heritage Centre recently brought the community together through its inaugural eco-friendly Gardening Workshop Series, held at the Centre’s newly established Community Garden. The workshops, held on Wednesday 28 May and Friday 30 May 2025, focused on composting, worm farming, vermicomposting, and sustainable harvesting—offering tamariki, whānau, and community members a hands-on opportunity to learn practical gardening techniques that nurture both the land and the people.
These engaging, hands-on sessions were led by seasoned gardening expert Raewyn, whose passion and over 20 years of experience in sustainable home planting have inspired community members of all ages to grow their own food while nurturing Mother Earth using eco-friendly methods.
Two Days of Learning, Growth, and Connection
Wednesday, 28 May – Despite a rainy morning limiting attendance, a dedicated group of five adults and over 25 children and teachers from Tiaki Early Learning Centre embraced the opportunity to learn. Held under the deck shelter, the session focused on foundational composting principles. Children engaged in interactive activities and play at the Hindu Heritage Centre Hall, while adults explored foundational composting principles.
Friday, 30 May – With sunny skies and vibrant energy, this session brought the full hands-on experience to life. Over 20 tamariki and teachers from Playtopia Educare joined the action, including a live worm farm demonstration. Presented by community member Duane Changalee, the demo showcased how vermicompost – “nature’s magic” – enriches soil and supports thriving gardens.
Workshop Highlights:
- Growing vegetables and herbs suited to Rotorua’s unique climate
- Building and managing compost systems using kitchen scraps
- Starting and maintaining productive worm farms
- Understanding vermicompost and its role in soil health
- Sustainable, chemical-free gardening and harvesting practices
Inspiring Words from the Workshop
“Healthy soil is the foundation of healthy food,” explained Raewyn. “By turning kitchen scraps into compost or worm castings, we’re not just reducing waste—we’re feeding the land and closing the loop in our food systems.”
Duane Changalee, who brought his home worm farm for demonstration, added: “Vermicompost is nature’s magic. Worm castings are packed with nutrients and beneficial microbes. They give plants a natural boost without the need for chemicals—and the best part is, anyone can do this at home, even in small spaces.”
More Than Gardening – Growing a Movement
Dr Guna Magesan, President of the Hindu Council of New Zealand, captured the spirit of the workshops: “This initiative is about more than just gardening or growing food—it’s about cultivating community, passing on knowledge, and strengthening our relationship with the whenua (land). We’re planting values as much as we are planting seeds.”
The Hindu Heritage Centre welcomed tamariki and kaiako from Tiaki Early Learning Centre and Playtopia Educare, and elders from the Hindu Elders Foundation and Age Concern, along with Rotorua public, celebrating the richness of intergenerational learning and shared experience.
Looking Ahead
These workshops are just the beginning. The Hindu Heritage Centre is committed to fostering a sustainable, connected community—where tamariki learn to care for the land, families are empowered with practical skills, and everyone has a role in creating a greener future.
