Waitoki Banana Farm Fieldtrip

Visit a farm that has built swales to grow bananas and is able to grow commercially without irrigation or synthetic fertilisers

Soils in South Rodney area often contain kaolinite clay, which resists rainwater infiltration when compacted. Traditional amendments like gypsum aren’t effective here—but swales with biochar and compost can make a meaningful difference by storing spring rain underground to support summer growth.  

Bring gumboots.

Meet at the letterboxes on Field Lane in order to carpool to the farm.