YOUTH & COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Cultivate is on a mission to inspire and engage young people who are not currently in education, employment or training. We do it outdoors, with our hands in the dirt, working side by side, where young people are more likely to open up about their biggest challenges and we have the opportunity to connect with them. It is not necessary to be interested in horticulture - our current programme is mixed with many different outdoor experiences.
Cultivate Explore
Our purpose is to foster and empower young people, creating a sense of belonging and security.
Deliverables
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8-week nature-based wellbeing programme - duration can be flexible depending on needs.
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Weekly group sessions on the urban farm
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1:1 mentoring and wellbeing support
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Hands-on learning in organic māra kai (food growing) and permaculture
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Level 2 Certificate in Horticulture.
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Opportunities to grow, harvest, prepare, and take home healthy food
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Community volunteering and intergenerational connection
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Outdoor activities that build confidence and resilience
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Strengths-based goal setting and personal development
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Connection to positive role models and support networks
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Pathways into further learning, volunteering, community participation, or employment readiness where appropriate
Outcomes for Rangatahi
Wellbeing
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Improved mental and emotional wellbeing
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Increased confidence and self-esteem
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Greater sense of purpose and achievement
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Improved resilience and coping skills
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Reduced social isolation
Connection
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Stronger connection to te taiao (the natural environment)
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Increased sense of belonging and community connection
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Development of positive friendships and support networks
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Improved relationships with whānau and trusted adults
Healthy Lifestyles
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Improved understanding of healthy food and nutrition
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Increased physical activity and time outdoors
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Development of positive daily routines and habits
Learning and Growth
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Increased knowledge of permaculture and organic food growing
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Greater food-growing skills and food resilience
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Recognition of personal strengths, talents, and leadership potential
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Increased confidence to participate in education, volunteering, training, or employment opportunities
We use a holistic, strengths-based approach to wellbeing, with Cultivate Explore providing opportunities for rangatahi to deepen their understanding of themselves, connect with the environment, and explore future pathways and opportunities.
1-1 Mentoring
If you're aged 15-25 - or know someone who is - and looking to learn about outdoor careers, or gain support through Adventure Therapy, get in touch.
We have a flexible, person-centred, and strengths-based approach to working with young people that focuses on well-being and personal development, horticultural education, and environmental sustainability, delivered by a range of Mentors experienced in the outdoors.
Community Engagement I Whakauru hapori
Our community volunteer sessions run every Wednesday from 9.00am–11.30am and are open to individuals, whānau (families), community groups, schools, businesses, and tertiary students looking to connect, contribute, and learn.
Groups can also book a session on an alternative day that suits their needs. We welcome everyone from preschools and school groups through to community organisations and corporate teams, tailoring each experience to the outcomes you are looking to achieve, whether that's team building, environmental education, wellbeing, food growing, community service, or connection to te taiao (the natural environment).
Volunteering at Cultivate is an opportunity to spend time outdoors, meet new people, learn organic food-growing skills, and contribute to a thriving urban farm. Through māra kai (food growing), composting, and caring for the whenua (land), volunteers help strengthen local food resilience while improving their own wellbeing.
Our volunteer sessions bring together people of all ages, cultures, and backgrounds, creating opportunities for whakawhanaungatanga (connection and relationship building), knowledge sharing, and community participation. Whether you're looking to gain practical skills, give back, improve your wellbeing, or simply spend time in a welcoming community space, everyone is welcome.
