Northland's Te Kai Mākona

The Northland region is leading the way in demonstrating and embracing The Salvation Army's food empowerment initiative, Te Kai Mākona. Te Kai Mākona aims to offer a longer-term solution to those experiencing food hardship in Aotearoa through three key principles: food provision, food empowerment, and advocacy to address the issues.  

The Salvation Army Whangarei Community Ministry has established a community garden that has become a community staple. Over the last 18 months, the gardens have produced 305 bags of fresh produce. This yield has powered vital programmes such as the Whangarei food bank, the Oranga Kai cooking programme, and community meals offered through the recovery church. 

Food Provision 

Since February 2023, Te Kai Mākona has rescued 125.2 tonnes of food in Northland, distributing 61.39 tonnes to over 40 partner organizations. This initiative helps redirect surplus food to those in need, supporting local communities. 

Partnering through Kai 

Te Kai Mākona in Northland has made significant strides through partnerships in food rescue and community support. Key achievements include sharing 4.275 tonnes of food with Salvation Army Kaitaia and a 90% success rate for corrections community workers completing their time onsite. In 2023 and 2024, partnerships with local suppliers like Pacific Rim Foods and Plantpro have helped source cost-effective kai and supply seedlings for community gardens. Surplus seedlings are shared with Oranga Kai participants, volunteers, and a community garden, promoting sustainable food practices and fostering community connections. 

Advocacy and Education 

Advocacy is key to Te Kai Mākona’s mission for food security. Carl Worthington, Community Ministry Food Security Team Leader, has engaged with local schools, presenting on food security at Whangarei Girls High and scheduled to speak at Kamo High in 2025, inspiring future action on sustainability. 

Connecting through Kai 

The Whangarei Community Ministry values personal connection for a sustainable future. Whānau events, with free sausages, snacks, and entertainment, have drawn over 300 attendees. The local café also hosts a kids' playgroup, fostering connections and strengthening community networks, creating lasting bonds and ensuring long-term support systems. 

Environmental Sustainability 

The programme's efforts extend beyond addressing food insecurity; they also make significant environmental contributions. Since February 2023, Te Kai Mākona has prevented 324.49 tonnes of CO2 emissions and saved 101.63 million litres of water. 

Empowering Food Security in NZ 

The Northland region's implementation of Te Kai Mākona exemplifies The Salvation Army's commitment to addressing food security, community empowerment, and environmental sustainability. Through ongoing partnerships, advocacy, and hands-on initiatives, the programme addresses immediate needs and sets the foundation for a more food-secure, connected, and resilient future. 

You can make a difference today. Please donate below.