Koanga Institute and Kotare Co-housing

This cooperative farm garden is all about saving New Zealand's Heritage foods, and they are keepers of New Zealand's largest collection of heritage plants.

The institute's philosophy, regenerative living, is based the teachings of American Dr J Price, as interpreted by the founders, Kay Baxter and Bob Corker. Their definition is *"processes that restore, renew or revitalize their own sources of energy and materials, creating sustainable systems that integrate the needs of society with the integrity of nature."*They place emphasis on biointensive methods and nutrient dense food.

A registered charity, Koanga (means 'new start in Maori) has been 'seed-saving' for thirty years, but have recently expanded their vision to include future projects in education, and have also planned a residential village for up to 50 families on this site, named Kotare co-housing.

The residential plans got underway in 2014, and in 2018 they were to raise their first buildings, with the Koanga Institute at the Centre. There is a section set aside for public interaction/retail, so visitors can enjoy, learn about and purchase heritage seeds, trees other products.

Image Credit: Koanga Institute