Growing food and telling people

It’s quite possible to eat your way around Hurunui and Waimakariri this weekend.

Well, almost.

The second Grow & Tell edible garden and farm trail will be taking place, on the back of a successful two day event last weekend.

Angela Clifford of Food Secure North Canterbury said these are great opportunities to show people of North Canterbury what is being grown in their own neighbourhood and community.

“The opportunity to inspire locals to grow their own food really is the purpose of Grow and Tell. It’s great to see.”

Clifford said with a comprehensive list of gardens and farm trails to visit each day across the two weekends, there is plenty of choice and scope for learning something new.

“A huge range of food is grown in North Canterbury, and it was great when people tell me they are going to give it a go.”

Clifford encouraged people to come along this weekend and discover what can be done so close to home.

“Especially during a time when there is such importance on being self-sufficient.”

Jacqui Rose is Hurunui District Council’s representative for Food Secure North Canterbury and works closely with Clifford to support initiatives that improve access to food across Hurunui.

Her current focus includes working alongside Hurunui foodbanks and schools, where access to consistent food supplies can sometimes be a challenge. Rose has also helped establish a Hurunui-based Food Security group to strengthen collaboration across the district.

Rose said events like Grow & Tell are a great way to showcase the incredible food being grown right here in North Canterbury.

“They help connect people with practical ideas and inspiration for growing their own food, while also strengthening the sense of community around local food resilience.”

To see more about this weekend’s Grow & Tell, please visit: https://foodsecurenc.org.nz/