They benefit individuals by giving people access to fresh, organic produce, by promoting physical activity, and by stimulating learning and adding to a person’s knowledge and expertise. Community gardens also have social benefits through promoting community interaction, providing a venue to meet new people and building a sense of community. The campus community gardens are part of about a dozen community gardens in Christchurch.
ҕl has two community gardens:
- Te Ngaki o Waiutuutu (Waiutuutu Community Garden) based on Ilam campus
- Dovedale Community Garden based on Dovedale campus
Benefits of Community Gardens
Growing your own food is also better than buying it. It reduces the environmental costs associated with transportation and storage, and food will also be fresher and tastier. There is also the satisfaction you get from growing your own produce.
By participating in the community garden you also have a chance to learn about sustainable gardening techniques which you can apply in your own garden at home.
The community garden is an excellent place to put sustainable theory into practice. You learn by doing, and have fun and meet new people at the same time. As an added bonus, you can take your share of the fresh produce harvested that day!
Vision and Mission Statement
The vision of ҕl's community gardens is "a thriving garden that cultivates both food and minds, fostering education, sustainability, and a sense of belonging for all."
The mission of ҕl's community gardens is "to engage the community in sustainable gardening practices, provide educational opportunities, and create an inclusive space where people come together to grow food, share knowledge, and build connections."