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After a successful first outing in 2024, Sustainable Ōrewa will host the second Hibiscus Coast Edible Garden Trail on the weekend of September 13 and 14.
This year’s trail features six private gardens and one community garden, all opening their gates to showcase what can be achieved in suburban backyards. The event is designed to inspire Coasties to grow food at home, share practical tips, and encourage more self-sufficiency.
The gardens on the trail vary in size and maturity, offering a snapshot of what’s possible, from small-scale patches to productive lifestyle blocks. Each focuses on edible planting, with additional features like chickens, bees, and compost systems.
Chrissy from The Green Mile in Manly says a productive garden offers more than just food. “Harvesting food grown only metres from our door feels like one of the best wins in life,” she says. Not only is it clean from chemicals but it’s the freshest food available. There is something so primal and satisfying in that.”
At Harvest Homestead in Ōrewa, Lynsey is taking part in the trail for the second time. “I’m really keen to be involved in the Hibiscus Coast Edible Garden Trail to showcase what’s possible in a suburban backyard. Growing food in your garden is fun, healthy and demonstrates how we can be food secure,”she says.
This year she’s adding a kitchen garden and new pathways to her property.
Sheryl, who tends Weedmore in Stanmore Bay, says when they moved in 10 years ago the site was “just lawn with a few overgrown rock gardens.” Over time they added swale drains, edible landscaping, fruit trees, and even a mini downhill bike track and wild garden area.
In Tindalls Beach, Loren from Harmony Hill Homestead has spent the last year learning how to manage established trees while preparing to add 50 more fruit trees, maintaining four large terraced veggie beds, chickens and bee hives.
“Taking part in the trail enables me to share my learnings with others, gain more experience from other gardeners and hopefully offer ideas to those that might be starting out,” Loren says.
Visitors are welcome to attend any or all gardens on the trail during set hours, and are asked to respect the gardens, owners and guidelines, including no pets.
The weekend aims to promote circular thinking and community sufficiency and organisers hope to grow the event for years to come. Full details of gardens and times will be released by Sustainable Ōrewa in early September. The event is supported by EcoNeighbourhoods and Auckland Council.
Saturday 13 and Sunday 14 September, 10am-2pm. Gold coin donation appreciated. To find out more visit www.sustainablegardentrail.org.nz
