Green Guardians
Every dollar earned by the nursery is reinvested directly back into their hapū, ensuring that their people benefit from the success of their initiatives. The nursery is dedicated to using contractors and subcontractors linked to their hapū whenever possible, fostering economic opportunities within the community, strengthening their cultural and social fabric, and reinforcing their mission to empower the Te Uri o Hau iwi and promote sustainable development.
Established by the Te Uri o Hau Settlement Trust in 2017, Te Ārai Native Nursery began as a Charitable Trust. The resolution of historical claims was achieved through the Settlement Act in 2002, a milestone that paved the way for initiatives like Te Ārai Native Nursery, aimed at empowering the local iwi towards self-reliance and socio- economic equality.
Initially, Te Ārai Native Nursery focused on providing free native plants for conservation efforts, supporting individuals and organisations, especially within the Kaipara Harbour catchment area. Over time, the nursery evolved into a thriving operation, aligning its structure with the commercial vision of the Te Uri o Hau Settlement Trust through its business arm, the Renaissance Group. This strategic transition was essential to ensure the nursery’s long-term sustainability, enabling it to continually create employment opportunities for local communities and contribute positively to the local environment.
Te Ārai Native Nursery prides itself on its deep-rooted connection to the community and commitment to the environment. Offering personalised ‘Grow to Order’ services, the nursery ensures each plant is cultivated to meet the specific needs of the customer, while the dedicated team's services also include delivery, planting, and maintenance, guaranteeing that native flora thrives for years to come.
This is more than just a business; Te Ārai Native Nursery is a pillar of the community. Educational programs and workshops engage the local population, fostering a deeper connection to native plants and environmental stewardship. By integrating Māori cultural knowledge into the nursery activities, they honour the traditions and values of the Te Uri o Hau iwi, promoting cultural preservation alongside environmental conservation.
The nursery’s success is built on the foundation of operational excellence, sustainable practices, and a passion for conservation. By implementing best practices for sustainable nursery operations and maintaining high standards of plant quality and nursery hygiene, they protect the health and growth of their native plants. These efforts are supported by a team of dedicated professionals who are trained in horticulture, nursery management, and cultural practices, creating a collaborative and motivated environment.
Looking to the future, Te Ārai Native Nursery remains committed to its mission of preserving New Zealand's native flora and fostering personal growth. They invite everyone to join the journey to enrich biodiversity, protect natural heritage, and contribute to the well-being of communities, believing that together a greener, more sustainable future for Aotearoa can be cultivated.
www.TeAraiNative.com | sales@TeAraiNative.com