- New Uta Garden Project is the latest initiative supported by the Puketāpapa Local Board’s Eco Neighbourhoods programme.
- The garden has transformed a vacant lot into a thriving hub for growing produce.
- The project is led by the House of Grace Tongan Family Church.
A vibrant new community garden has taken root in Puketāpapa, unlocking faith, food, and fellowship in the heart of Wesley.
Launched in May, the ‘Uta Garden Project’ is the latest initiative supported by the Puketāpapa Local Board’s Eco Neighbourhoods programme. The garden is located at 84 O’Donnell Avenue on Kāinga Ora land, where a flood-damaged house was removed following the devastating Anniversary Weekend weather event in 2023.
Led by the House of Grace Tongan Family Church, the garden has transformed the vacant lot into a thriving hub for growing produce and nurturing community ties.
“This is more than just a source of food,” says Pastor Penitani Manoa.
“It’s a space for fellowship and to build community. Our men’s ministry now has a place to gather, talk about life, and reconnect with our culture. This is how we are in Tonga — the land brings us together.”
Local Board chair Ella Kumar says it’s such a great community initiative.
“It’s a great example of Puketāpapa’s resilience and community-driven outcomes. This project showcases how we as a community help and learn from each other, as well as sharing. ”
Deputy chair Fiona Lai also adds it’s the great example of how Puketāpapa connects.
“This project is the epitome of our wonderful Puketāpapa community coming together. We’ve got a team of driven and community-focused residents collaborating to benefit the wider neighbourhood, it’s just a great outcome and showcases what can be achieved.”
The garden project came together at pace after the group secured access to the site earlier this year. It has quickly become a symbol of local climate action, cultural resilience, and social wellbeing.
Eco Neighbourhoods facilitator Heather Lyall played a key role in supporting the group, helping broker a relationship with Kāinga Ora and working alongside the team to shape the vision and promote the launch.
“A common barrier for community garden groups is access to land,” Heather says.
“Being able to provide that connection and support has been crucial to getting this project off the ground. We love to partner and work alongside the local Kāinga Ora team who have worked hard to support community”
Looking ahead, the group has ambitions to build a pātaka kai — a community pantry — where fresh produce from the garden can be shared with neighbours and whānau across the area.
The ‘Uta Garden Project’ is a shining example of what’s possible when community spirit meets local support — cultivating not just food, but connection, purpose and pride.
Interested in starting or joining an Eco Neighbourhoods group?
Find out more about how you can take local climate action in your own community.
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