Talking Taiao

In this episode Sophie chats with Sustainable Taranaki's Organic Programmes Manager, Mieke Verschoor, about the important role community gardens play in creating healthier, more connected and sustainable communities. They explore what's been happening across Sustainable Taranaki's gardens, the benefits of growing local kai, and how people of all ages and experience levels can get involved. Join us for a relaxed and inspiring kōrero about growing food, friendships and resilience.

Our mission is to inspire and support people, businesses, and communities to value our local taiao (environment) and act to prioritize sustainability.

Our mission is to inspire and support people, businesses, and communities to value our local taiao (environment) and act to prioritize sustainability.

This week Sophie chats with new Sustainable Trails Co-Coordinator Suzy Randall about the exciting road ahead for Taranaki Sustainable Trails 2026. Get to know Suzy, hear what inspires her about the kaupapa, and discover what makes the Trails such a special celebration of community, creativity and connection with te taiao. From sustainable backyards and eco-builds to regenerative farming and local storytelling, this episode offers a sneak peek at what’s coming in 2026 — plus key dates, upcoming events, and ways to get involved and keep in the loop. www.sustainabletrails.org.nz

Green Loop is steadily building a local circular food waste system in Taranaki, from working bees and compost trials to richer soil outcomes. In this episode of Talking Taiao, Dave James from Juno Gin Distillery reflects on being Green Loop’s first food waste collection customer and what that early adoption has looked like in practice. The conversation also looks ahead to Green Loop’s participation in the Venture Taranaki PowerUp programme, with co-founder Sophie Walker set to present at the upcoming Showcase evening on 13th May. Get in touch if you want to join Green Loop: www.greenloop.org.nz