A Givealittle page has raised nearly $30,000 to rebuild a native seed bank and farm that burned down last week.
Based in Kaitoke, Papawhakaritorito Charitable Trust, which focuses on kaupapa Māori seed, soil, and food sovereignty, had its seeds, merchandise, and farm water pump destroyed.
Trust founder Jessica Hutchings says the farm, dedicated to Māori organics and seed sovereignty, was significantly impacted by the fire, including the loss of unique Māori potatoes and heirloom seeds.
She says the support on Givealittle is helping her and her partner rebuild during this challenging time.
“Messages of support really buoy us when we come back into our little cabin and tent and we’re exhausted and depleted and, you know, teary, we get on the give a little and read the messages from people, and it’s just a really, really beautiful to know that we can all come together,” says Hutchings.
Jessica Hutchings says despite the difficulties, the goal remains to establish a National Māori Seed Bank for all things Maōri.
