The transformation of this space was brought about by the movement ‘Gift-The-Garden’ and funded by the Ōrākei Local Board’s Wildlink Programme in 2022. Over 40 individuals and organisations were involved in the project.

In December, following a welcome from Dane Tumahai of Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei with a mihi, karakia and waiata and a procession of volunteers and supporters, who were invited to touch the plants and feel the wairua of the place, Deputy Mayor, Desley Simpson, and Chair of the local Residents Association (Glendowie & St Heliers), Kiri Barfoot, jointly opened the garden.

For such a tiny space, it is certainly punching above its weight for climate and rewilding action!

The old derelict wall, revitalised with new seating and structure, has been beautified by artwork from Numa Mackenzie and Rowena Rooney. The garden now provides kai for people and wildlife with six fruit trees and a whole range of edibles including herbs and tomatoes. 

There are homes for mini-beasts made from recycled material and Auckland Transport’s new Eastern Busway provided materials for the ‘wavy fence’ from houses to be demolished. There is also a game seat for the community to enjoy and a secret fairy door for the kids!