Waiheke Island

It's nice to be home after a week away traveling around the lower North Island visiting nine Transition Towns and speaking at as many events. With US going through major financial wobbles, people are starting to look at things differently, and the public meetings around the country, particularly on the subject of local food growing, are drawing bigger numbers than ever.

At each place I went I shared a short video presentation (actually a slide show with pics), of New Zealand's one year celebration of Transition, which has since made it onto Rob Hopkin's website. Rob is the UK founder of the Transition Towns concept. » Read more

The Big InTent is an upcoming two day "global multi-media event" oriented around the theme of sustainability.  The fundraiser & info evening will feature a screening of acclaimed BBC doco EARTH and organisers will update on the festival's progress as well as announcing headlining events. » Read more

A "Place"
A small group of people have been actively pursuing a lease on a building and property which could serve as a hub for all the amazing projects and initiatives which the Waiheke community is putting commitment and energy into (some but not all of which are noted here). We imagine it being a focal point for education and sharing of information, celebration, films and presentations, food exchange, offices for Transition Waiheke and Transition Aotearoa, and more. Watch this space.

The Food Hui at the Marae » Read more

With a ten-year vision of planting 20,000 fruit and nut trees on the island's public and private land, the Fabulous Fruit Tree Group is working, in conjunction with Auckland City Council, towards planting its first orchard reserve this winter – possibly behind the old Surfdale post office. Approximately 25 organic trees will be under-planted with heritage daffodils and narcissus; a bench will be placed for contemplation in the shade and a path weave through the young trees. » Read more