Community gardens

Photo shows six smiling gardeners standing in a community garden holding baskets of fresh vegetables.

A community garden is land gardened collectively by a group of people.

Community gardens are great spaces for people to come together to share know-how, swap stories, and enjoy fresh, homegrown kai. Working side by side and sharing food are things we all understand, providing a simple way to connect across cultures and make new friends. Community gardens are a wonderful way for neighbours of all ages and backgrounds to work on something meaningful.

As long as you have the landowner's permission, these gardens can be created just about anywhere.

Benefits of a community garden

Community gardens offer a variety of possibilities, including growing vegetables, herbs, fruits and flowers. They also:

  • Provide a shared resource for fresh, locally grown produce
  • Help reduce food waste
  • Encourage an active lifestyle, benefiting both mental and physical health
  • Serve as a gathering space where neighbours can connect, sparking other positive community projects
  • Promote the sharing of knowledge and the passing on of valuable skills
  • Strengthen community spirit and create a safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment for all 

How to start a community garden 

There are some important considerations to make when starting a community garden. Download our Community Garden Guide to help with planning your project.

Download the guide(PDF, 609KB)

Step 1.Gather your team

Start by bringing together at least three people who are keen to help create and care for the garden (just make sure no more than two are from the same household).

Think about how much time each person can contribute to make sure your garden stays successful and well looked after.

Step 2.Share your ideas with us – we are here to support you

We’d love to hear about your garden plans! Let’s talk about your chosen location, and the practical things to think about.

We’ll work together to make sure the garden will be a great fit for everyone. Factors to consider when choosing the location for the garden include:

  • Water supply
  • Waste management plan/composting
  • Building
  • Accessibility
  • Sunlight
  • Space
  • Longevity
  • Health and safety
  • Infrastructure
  • Resources

Please contact our Community Development Team at CommunityDevelopment@pncc.govt.nz or call 06 356 8199.

Step 3.Identify budgets and funding options

Your permit will outline an annual fee for using the land, typically between $50 and $150 per year.

Keep in mind there may be additional costs for items like tools, soil, or wheelbarrows to get your garden started.

Funding support is available through Environment Network Manawatū (ENM) for projects that align with Council and ENM priorities to enhance the city’s environmental outcomes.

ENM Environmental Initiatives Fund

Step 4.Apply to Council

Apply to create your garden through the SmartyGrants portal, and we’ll guide you every step of the way.

SmartyGrants portal

Share your vision for fostering connections, teaching skills, or providing fresh food, and tell us how you’ll maintain the garden and keep everyone engaged.

We’ll consider your plans and feedback from the community, including neighbours and Mana whenua Rangitāne o Manawatū, before making a decision.

Step 5.Sign a permit

Once your application is approved, we’ll send you a draft permit to review and share your input before it’s finalised.

The permit will need to be signed by three representatives from your group and the Council, ensuring everyone is on the same page. It will include all the exciting details — like your approved gardening area and tips for maintenance, so you’ll have everything you need to keep your garden growing and vibrant.

Step 6.Annual update

Each year, we’ll ask your group to share a quick update through SmartyGrants to highlight your progress. You’ll tell us about your goals, achievements, challenges, and plans for the future, as well as how the garden has benefited the community.

Don’t forget to include a few photos to show off your hard work. These updates help us support you and keep your garden flourishing.

How Council can help

We can support your community garden by helping you with:

  • Low-cost rentals for community gardens on Council land.
  • Some limited in-kind support for trees and compost.
  • Promotion of community gardens on our digital channels.
  • Environment Network Manawatū administers funding provided by the Council to support community initiatives.

Contacts for support

We are here to support you through this process. Please contact the Community Development team at CommunityDevelopment@pncc.govt.nz or call 06 356 8199.

 

Manawatū Food Action Network provide and support local food resilience initiatives.

Check out the community garden directory

 

Take a look at the community garden directory to find initiatives you might like to support and to connect with other local groups.

Community gardens in the Manawatū

Back to top