Te Ara Taiao is a Sustainable Taranaki programme that works alongside kura, hapū, and community partners to create learning experiences rooted in place, tikanga, and environmental practice.
“We work with Year 7–10 students in a wide range of kaupapa, from native planting and river restoration to traditional weaving, water monitoring, storytelling, and creative expression. One key focus is intergenerational learning, where tohunga and kaumātua share their mātauranga with the next generation,” said Tane Manukonga, Project Lead.
“The name Te Ara Taiao was gifted to us by a local kaumātua. Ara means path and Taiao is environment, so it means the environmental pathway,” said Jane Bowden Dobson, Co-Lead.
“Our programmes are based on a seasonal calendar. Right now, we’re planting and working to protect seabird habitats. The kids are learning how to look after their habitats, getting their whānau involved and creating artwork for new signs.”
Initially, Te Ara Taiao received DOC funding but found it hard to meet the growing demand from schools and whānau.
“Most of our team worked well beyond their paid hours, but still we struggled and found it hard to plan long-term or expand without stable support,” said Tane
Toi Foundation funding has been a game changer for Te Ara Taiao, helping six kaimahi deliver the programme to over 200 Taranaki students this year.
“It allowed us to retain a solid delivery team and maintain our biodiversity outcomes. Most importantly, it gave us breathing space to plan strategically, build a strong foundation and shift from growth mode into a more sustainable space,” said Tane.
Altogether, more than 500 people have engaged with Te Ara Taiao activities, deepening connection, cultural knowledge and environmental action across Taranaki.
“The Toi Foundation’s support has allowed us to grow something meaningful, grounded in both mātauranga and action. We’re incredibly grateful to be able to do this mahi with our people, in our place, for future generations.”
