Whiria te Tangata – Weave the People Together
Celebrating our volunteers during National Volunteer Week
At Kaipātiki Project, volunteering isn’t just about helping out — it’s about building something meaningful, together.
Every week, across our native plant nurseries, bush tracks, teaching gardens, compost hubs — and even behind the scenes in our office — our volunteers show up. They show up in raincoats and sunhats, with muddy gloves, open hearts, and warm smiles. They bring time, energy, laughter, and care — and they leave behind thriving ecosystems, supported teams, inspired tamariki, and stronger communities.
The theme for this year’s National Volunteer Week is Whiria te Tangata – Weave the People Together. It perfectly captures what happens when volunteers come together — weaving connection between people and place, between purpose and planet.
Every year at Kaipātiki Project, more than 1,000 volunteers help propagate over 45,000 eco-sourced native plants. They’ve cleared weeds, harvested kūmara, turned compost, led walks, welcomed newcomers, and supported our day-to-day operations. And in doing so, they’ve helped restore the mauri of our local reserves and communities across Auckland’s North.
To everyone who gives their time to Kaipātiki Project — whether weekly or once a year — thank you. You are the heartbeat of our work.
This Volunteer Week, we honour your mahi.
Let’s keep weaving people and nature together — one seedling, one step, one smile at a time.
Always Wanted to, but Never Have?
If you’ve been thinking of getting involved, now is the perfect time to join us. We run regular Volunteer Welcome Days, and there’s a place here for you — in the nursery, in the garden, on the trail, or behind the scenes. It’s fun, rewarding, and deeply meaningful — just ask one of our long-time volunteers!
Diverse Ways to Get Involved
Volunteering with Kaipātiki Project is as diverse as the ecosystems we work to protect. From propagating native seedlings in our nurseries, tending crops or turning compost in our teaching gardens, and clearing invasive weeds on the bush track — to data entry, photography, helping behind a screen or helping behind the scenes — there’s a role for everyone.
Why Our Volunteers Give Their Time
Our volunteers come from all walks of life, but they share a common purpose: to make a difference. Some come to reconnect with nature, others to build community or learn new skills. Many say it’s the joy, purpose, and sense of belonging that keeps them coming back.
As one volunteer shared: “Volunteering isn’t just about giving back; it’s about connection, learning and the joy of making an impact.”
Ngā mihi nui,
The Kaipātiki Project Team