Koanga Institute

Kōanga Institute, founded in the early 1980s by Kay Baxter and Bob Corker in Kaiwaka, is a pioneering organization dedicated to preserving New Zealand's rich heritage of fruits and vegetables. With a mission to revive and protect these essential seeds and their stories, Kōanga has amassed the largest collection of over 800 heritage vegetable seed lines and 400 varieties of fruit trees and berries in the country. Offering a diverse range of products, Kōanga provides heirloom seeds, including beans, tomatoes, and root vegetables, along with support for forest gardening projects and education through workshops and online courses.

Their commitment to regenerative agricultural practices ensures both human health and environmental sustainability. Kōanga also engages the community through their shop, educational resources, and volunteer opportunities. By focusing on biodiversity and nutrition, Kōanga Institute aims to foster a new beginning for our food systems and contribute to a healthier future for all