From the Ground Up: A Food Forest’s Story
Hi, I’m Selena, and this isn’t just a garden; it’s a food forest – a living, breathing, one-acre ecosystem nestled in Tauranga. Over the years, this space has been shaped by a deep respect for the land and a lot of hands-on learning. It’s a thriving, layered landscape where over 350 fruit trees from all corners of the world grow alongside a vibrant mix of herbs, perennials, flowers, and wild pockets of seasonal surprises. To learn more, visit taurangafoodforest.com.
I’m drawn to the unusual – the rare and unexpected. I’ve filled this forest with plants that challenge the rules of what can grow here, from obscure fruit trees to plants with unexpected colours. Each one adds a unique layer to the forest’s character. The constant seasonal shifts bring a sense of wonder and new things to learn, and that’s what keeps this space alive and always evolving.
Working with the Land
The sloping land here presented its own set of challenges- erosion, wind, and the way water moves through the gully. But instead of fighting it, we used it to our advantage. By working with the contours, we’ve created microclimates and protected zones. You’ll find a sense of natural flow through the garden, guided by winding pathways and hand-built stairways that follow the land’s shape. The central greenhouse, a hub of activity, and the various paths all reflect a thoughtful design that serves the practical needs of both people and plants.
A Shared Journey
This project has been a shared effort from the very beginning. While it provides for our family day to day, it’s also a place for others who are curious about regenerative growing, food resilience, and the possibilities of working with nature. We’re excited to share what we’ve created and what we’re still learning as the forest continues to grow.
Beyond this space, I’m passionate about bringing the community together and helping to expand food forests across Aotearoa. By sharing knowledge and inspiration, I hope this project becomes a catalyst for more edible ecosystems to take root throughout New Zealand.
This is more than a food forest; it’s a living, evolving experiment, and I’m so excited to share it with you.
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FAQ
How old is the food forest?
The food forest has evolved over time. Some of the trees, which are now producing a good yield, are around 10 years old. Many of the other plants have been added in more recent years, including many that were grown on-site from seed.
How many trees and plants are in the food forest?
We keep a careful record of all our plantings. Currently, there are about 350 fruit trees and 130 different types of edible plants, not including herbs and vegetables. These numbers are always growing as we continue to add new plants.
Is the site wheelchair accessible?
No, unfortunately, the site is not wheelchair or stroller accessible. The food forest is built around a natural gully with many hand-built stairways. The pathways can be steep, bumpy, and sometimes slippery, so we recommend visitors have the appropriate mobility to navigate the terrain safely.
Is on-site parking available?
Yes, we offer on-site parking. For larger events, we can provide specific parking instructions as needed.
Where do you get your seeds and plants?
We source our plants from many different places. Some are from public retailers, and others come from private sellers. The "Food Forests Tauranga" Facebook group is also a great resource for local knowledge and often hosts events where you can swap or buy different seeds and plants.
Do you offer learning opportunities for schools?
Yes, we would love to hear from teachers and schools interested in using the Tauranga Food Forest as an outdoor classroom. You can register your interest to help us understand your class needs and keep you updated on future opportunities.
Are there volunteer opportunities?
As the food forest continues to grow, there may be opportunities for volunteers to get involved. If you would like to be notified of volunteer days and other opportunities, you can sign up to stay in the loop.
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Hosted By Selena Hardman
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