We love this annual event – the Eco Leaders Hui
Ten schools came together to share, inspire and connect, and wow – the mahi happening across South Canterbury is something special. From vegetable gardens and chickens for eggs, to native planting, saving mudfish, worm farms, upcycling and learning through play… the passion is real.
Today was all about sharing stories, sparking ideas, and connecting passionate students leading change in their schools.
We heard inspiring updates from each school – and what a step up from last year! From there, we explored practical actions they can take back with them, including worm farming, native planting (and why it matters), and learning how to weave waste plant material — tī kōuka leaves — into natural weed mats.
After a relaxed shared lunch (make-your-own buns always a hit!), students worked in their group to create action plans for their schools. Worm farms were definitely a hot topic – and we can’t wait to see what grows from here!
A huge shout out to everyone who made it happen – the staff (and parents) supporting these tamariki, our co-hosts Enviro NZ (Corrie Andrews and Briony Woodnorth) and Environment Canterbury (Debbie Eddington), and our ring-in star Natasha Rankin who stepped in to make sure lunch was sorted (plus Alice’s mum for jumping in with prep the day before!).
An inspiring day of collaboration and action for our future. Watch this space to see how their action plans evolve!
Here is an example from Highfield School and the action they are doing in their amazing garden space! www.youtube.com/watch?v=07QhgxxAXMI
