Mihirau
Mihirau, the name gifted to us by the landowners, means “A hundred greetings to all those whose tables are nourished from within”.
About Mihirau, our greenhouse
Mihirau is SKGF’s 700m² greenhouse and a cornerstone of kai Motuhake programme. In FY2025, Mihirau produced over 108,000 seedlings, supplying our community gardens, schools, and whānau through Homegrown and Grow a Row. Managed by Andrea—an expert in greenhouse operations and rongoā Māori—Mihirau is more than a growing space; it’s a hub of learning, collaboration, and regeneration.
“I had the pleasure of attending the blessing of the new Mihirau initiative which highlights their focus on sustainable outcomes into the future while also supporting people with daily needs such as food and connection. They have an amazing ability to pivot to meet immediate need and their commendable response during COVID and the North Island Weather Events is a testament to this. Their deep connections in to their community ensure that they provide the right support at the right time to where it is needed” – Daniel Brunt, Regional Commissioner MSD
We work closely with the Helensville Recycling Centre, local volunteers, and Corrections PD workers to maintain Mihirau’s operations. Seedling pots are donated, compost is created on-site, and worm tea is brewed from rescued food scraps. Mihirau embodies SKGF’s commitment to circular systems, local supply chains, and food sovereignty.
Mihirau has been a vital directional change strategically, working towards self- sufficiency within our community. It is a welcoming space for our community and has seen volunteers seeding, weeding and getting their hands dirty.
