Rongoā Māori emphasises the connection between people and nature. Practitioners believe: “When you go into the bush, the mauri (life force) of the bush, the mauri of Papatūānuku, will heal us, if we just sit and be.” We are creating a space where people from all walks of life can come to rest and reflect amongst familiar and comforting New Zealand native bush. This will be a welcoming space to reconnect with Papatūānuku and feel culturally, physically, spiritually, and emotionally strengthened, in accordance with the Te Whare Tapa Whā model of wellbeing.
The Rongoā garden’s fresh plants will enable members of our community to learn about traditional healing plants. Community workshops will be offered by our Hospice Rongoā practitioner to the wider community to learn more about this healing modality and how to make Rongoā Rākau, healing plant remedies.
Stage One: Turning The Soil