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With reports that over a third of Kiwi kids are overweight or obese, the Garden to Table Trust has launched the T&G Garden to Table Young Gardener of the Year Awards.
The trust was established in 2009 and aims to teach children gardening, healthy eating and cooking skills.
Applications for the awards are open for young gardeners throughout New Zealand until September 29.
The awards aim to seek out five green-thumbed budding young gardeners who are enthusiastic and have passion and drive to grow fresh produce to create delicious dishes.
Schools can also get involved by entering for the School of the Year award.
Garden to Table chief executive Linda Taylor says the awards are designed to recognise the talent and achievements of individuals and schools who are growing nutritious food.
“We are on a mission to change the way children approach and think about food. At Garden to Table we strongly believe that children who understand where good food comes from – and how to prepare it – are likely to make better food choices,” she says.
“As well as looking for the most passionate young gardeners in New Zealand, we’re also looking for the most enthusiastic school that is championing this approach, involving their kids in all aspects of gardening in an environmentally sustainable garden.”
Award judges include Linda Taylor, chef and restaurateur Al Brown, gardening journalist and broadcaster Lynda Hallinan and T&G executive general manager (NZ produce)Andrew Keaney.
Al Brown says Garden to Table is working with schools across the country, setting tasks in the garden and kitchen to help improve children’s social skills.
“The pride the kids have in what they’ve accomplished is extraordinary – from growing the produce, right through to cooking and enjoying meals together.”
