Hidden down a winding driveway, the Old School Teaching Gardens in Māngere bloom into a three-acre dreamland, a lush urban oasis making a significant impact.
Their motto, Ka whakatipū i te whenua ka ora tatou, means cultivate the land and give life to the people.
Funded by the Māngere-Ōtāhuhu Local Board, the Old School Teaching Gardens has been putting down deep roots for 15 years.
Board chair Tauanu’u Nick Bakulich says, “The Old School Teaching Gardens is a real gem in our community, a space that offers so much from looking after and appreciating the environment to looking after the wellbeing of people.”
Yvonne, at 80 years young and a cherished member of Māngere Bridge, has been involved with the Old School Teaching Gardens since 2009, working closely with fellow Māngere local Metua Aerenga.
“Yvonne is an incredible community champion who has devoted every ounce of her knowledge to help others. We are blessed to have Yvonne and look forward to many more years of seeing and hearing of her many exciting ideas,” says Bakulich.
Gardening, as revealed by Auckland’s longest-serving teaching mentor and local community legend, Yvonne Thomas, transcends the mere cultivation of delicious fresh produce.
“For 15 years, this space has flourished. Metua and I are dedicated to its transformation. Our stream, nourished by springs and rain run-off, hosts roupo (wetland plant), water cress, cow cress, willow, and long fin eels. Roupo is used in weaving at the Kai Whare on Māngere Mountain,” says Yvonne.
Something unique about the Old School Teaching Gardens is the good work they do with Corrections.
“We’ve been fortunate to work with amazing Corrections teams from Manurewa, Māngere/Ōtara, and now Panmure. Their efforts are like a breath of fresh air! Thanks to them, our native bush and food forest are thriving, and they support fresh produce delivery to the community. We also teach them cooking so they gain hands-on experience that brings their gardening efforts to life,” she says.
L - the garden veggies in full bloom. Top right - mentor Metua Aerenga. Bottom right - Yvonne in the main kitchen area.
Carrot-ing On
Visitors are Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday from 9am to 2pm, offering garden plots for rent at $30 for six months.
Schools come for educational trips and Community Days, while the Day Care gardens in the area, Skills Update on Tidal Road, and diverse tree crops attract numerous fascinated visitors, including those from abroad.
For help or donations, email Yvonne at yvonnethomas1946@gmail.com.
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