Grow Your Own Food Workshop

Come learn different facets of self sufficiency in this full day workshop on our 8ha property. Whether you are looking to feed yourself from your balcony, backyard garden, or your farm, we will cover the foundations of growing your own food holistically. 

We are certified organic, and follow biodynamic, natural farming, no-dig/no-till, regenerative agriculture and holistic grazing principles. We feed ourselves, as well as supplying a local restaurant, and the local Waihi Beach Dillon Street stall. 

Topics we will cover in this workshop -
- Understanding what - no-dig or no-till / organic / biodynamic / regenerative agriculture / holistic grazing / natural farming - all mean and how they relate in holistic food systems
- How to grow food harnessing details of these particular methods
- Building soil structure and fertility naturally
- Understanding messages from ‘weeds’ and what they are telling us
- Seeds vs Seedlings - how, what, when!
- Basics of ‘Planting by the Moon’ - using a lunar wheel, or the Biodynamic calendar, as well as understanding Maramataka
- Holistic Grazing for pastoral animals, including herbal leys
- Guidance around keeping animals - cows, pigs, sheep, goats, chickens, and bees
- Aspects of self sufficiency 
- Nature communication

Lunch from the farm will also be provided, in the form of homekill beef, salads, condiments, and homebaking of course! Coffee, homegrown tea, and natural sodas are included. 

The workshop is limited to eight people, allowing plenty of space to absorb and ask questions. 

Please note that we will be outside for the duration of the workshop, and if torrential rain is forecast, the workshop will be moved to the Sunday. 

Facilitated by Monique from Natural Wisdom. 

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Feedback from previous workshops - 

"Monique is an engaging, knowledgeable facilitator of these workshops. A great way to learn about becoming more mindful and respectful of nature and what she has to offer. I learnt so much about improving soil structure using natural techniques - looking forward to the abundance of healthy nutritious vegetables utilizing this way of gardening. Looking forward to doing more of these enlightening workshops." - Julie

"Monique's workshop was inspiring, informative, down to earth, and tailored to the audience. She is enthusiastic and encouraging, sharing a bounty of knowledge and cultural perspective in a way that makes earth-centric gardening feel achievable no matter who you are. A definite game-changer!" - Briony

"Moniques love of the environment really shines through on how she presents and engages with her listeners. She is enthusiastic and passionate which made for easy learning." - Leigh

"What an amazing workshop, I have come away with so much knowledge. Learning about how to mend soil naturally was fulfilling, I am excited to start applying a more natural approach to the way I garden to produce greater yields that are healthier and full of nutrients for my whanau." - Alamein

"Monique has a wealth of knowledge and wisdom to share. Her delivery is inclusive of all no matter what level of skills you might have in the garden. Monique’s mission is to support and empower people to become more connected to the natural world through sustainable and dynamic practice. At a time where supply chains are tentative, these workshops create confidence that we all have the ability to grow a lot of our own food, no matter what size property you might have. Monique has lots of tips, to get the absolute best out of your garden! I highly recommend any workshop facilitated by Monique, and look forward to attending upcoming workshops" - Kate