Mārama Kai is grounded in a deep commitment to kai sovereignty, Hua Parakore principles, soil regeneration, diversification, zero waste practices, sustainability, quality education, and holistic wellbeing.

From this, we have created a regenerative education programme consisting of 13 modules, delivered in sequence and aligned with the maramataka, each one building upon the next. These modules are designed to explore and reconnect the biology of self with the biology of te taiao, supporting a deeper understanding that we are not separate from the systems that sustain us.

This journey is experiential and sensory, designed to create curiosity of self and foster an embodied understanding of health, rhythm, and relationship.

We work with schools, kura, workplaces, marae, clubs, community māra, and groups, bringing learning back to the land. Through the planning and creation of gardens, we teach by doing, growing kai and rongoā, and restoring connection to the natural systems that support life.

The programme centres on the design and development of māra kai using permaculture and Hua Parakore (zero waste) principles. Delivery is hybrid, combining classroom learning and hands on application, with most time spent outdoors undertaking practical mahi in the gardens.

Through this process, from waste to soil to seed to plate, we transform the way our kura and communities understand health and wellbeing. As connection to land deepens, so too does awareness of self, gut health, nervous system regulation, cycles and the rhythms that guide our wellbeing.

Each module includes kōrero, reflection, and practical learning, with the weaving of waiata and karakia throughout. We draw on ngā atua and pūrākau to strengthen understanding of whakapapa and whanaungatanga with both people and whenua.

By reinforcing kaitiakitanga, we empower communities with the mātauranga, skills, and resources to create and sustain māra rongoā, māra kai, and the wellbeing of both people and environment.

Outcomes
Through participation in this programme, individuals and communities will:

Develop a practical understanding of the relationship between soil health, food systems, and human health.

Strengthen connection to whenua, whakapapa, and natural rhythms.

Improve awareness of gut health, nutrition, and nervous system regulation.

Build skills in growing kai, rongoā rākau, and regenerative gardening practices.

Reduce waste and increase resourcefulness through circular, sustainable systems.

Strengthen confidence, resilience, and self responsibility in health and wellbeing.

Re establish cultural knowledge through mātauranga, pūrākau, and tikanga.

Create functioning māra kai and māra rongoā within their communities.

Support long term wellbeing outcomes for whānau, hapū, and wider rohe.