There will be a buzz of excitement and activity in front of Pakuranga Baptist Kindergarten as the children, families and community of the kindergarten plant the first fruit trees on Saturday morning (September 30), in what will become a community orchard.
“Just over a year ago we began talking with the children about the dreams they had for kindy and for our environment,” says Jacqui Lees, Kaiwhakahaere (team leader) of Pakuranga Baptist Kindergarten.
“The idea of people being able to pick fruit off trees in our garden emerged and was one of the ideas that seemed to resonate with everyone. This idea grew and grew until the children were talking about an orchard.”
With support from the churches who share the site, a grant from the Howick Local Board, and dedication from the teachers, the children’s dream is about to become a reality.
The kindergarten invites everyone to come along and help with the planting of what will be, in time, an amazing asset for our local community.
This is an event for the whole family, where children will help to plant trees that they can visit (and pick fruit from) as they grow. There will also be a bouncy castle and sausage sizzle to enjoy.
So put on your gardening gloves, bring a spade if you have one, and join us for this historic event.
Community Orchard Planting Day
Saturday September 30, 9am – 12noon
Pakuranga Baptist Kindergarten
2 Fremantle Place, Pakuranga