Waitohi garden growing community spirit

A community garden project in Waitohi Picton is cultivating the seeds of community spirit.

Set on Huia Street Reserve, between Huia and Ranui streets, the garden is part of the larger Victoria Domain Reserve and is for the use of the local community.

For the past three years, Envirohub Marlborough has been working closely with Council to bring the vision to fruition, Community Garden Project Manager Amy Healey said.

“From the beginning, Council has been a key supporter, generously offering the Huia Street site - a location steeped in history as a former market garden - making its transformation back to its original purpose all the more meaningful,” she said.

Council’s Solid Waste Manager Mark Lucas, along with staff member and Picton local Joe Larrington, worked with WM New Zealand and Clarke’s Drainage and Developments to donate and deliver a truckload of mulch.

“This is a great example of how Council works with the community to support a project that will benefit people in so many ways. It also demonstrates the circularity we can achieve with waste for a great cause,” Mr Lucas said.

Amy said the combined efforts from the teams at Clarke’s, Council and WM meant the community garden had truly benefited.

“Other local businesses, clubs and individuals have also donated resources and volunteer time. This really shows what is possible when a community works together for a common purpose and we’re thrilled to be a part of it,” she said.

The seeds of the community garden concept were first sown in 2018 as part of the Long-Term Plan when Council granted funding for the project at Beach Road Reserve. That site did not eventuate but in late 2021 the project was reignited at the Huia Street Reserve.

On Wednesday 23 April from 10am there is a working bee at the Waitohi Picton Community Garden – all welcome. For more information go to: www.facebook.com/pictongarden