Small ideas can spark powerful change. What started as a simple “what if” conversation has turned into a community-led project that’s growing thousands of native plants and reshaping the Mid Oreti Catchment.

In this episode, I sit down with Ainsley Adams and Rosie Hunter to talk about the Mid Oreti Mini Forest Movement, how it began, and the impact it’s having across schools, farms, and communities. From monthly drop-in sessions to affordable plant packs, we cover the practical steps that have made this project both achievable and sustainable.

Key Takeaways

• How the Mid Oreti Mini Forest Movement grew from an idea into a self-sustaining community nursery
• Practical tips for anyone wanting to grow their own native plants at home or start a local nursery project
• The role of schools, landowners, and community groups in making biodiversity projects thrive

Guests Ainsley Adams and Rosie Hunter share their experiences leading this grassroots initiative, including the wins, challenges, and why momentum is everything.

Don’t miss this episode if you’re curious about starting something similar in your own community — the advice here could be the kickstart you need.

#SouthlandNZ #catchmentgroups #communityprojects #nativeplants

Connect with Mid Oreti Catchment Group

Website: https://www.thrivingsouthland.co.nz/mid-oreti/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100062936575760

Email: midoreticatchment@gmail.com

Connect with us at Thriving Southland

Website: https://www.thrivingsouthland.co.nz/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThrivingSouthland/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCERVHLoTWa0c4IL4BC4b_Kw

Email: office@thrivingsouthland.co.nz