RetroSuburbia: The Built and Biological Fields

June 26, 2018 Estwing 3 Comments

This workshop covers the most cost effective approaches to home renovation and edible landscaping. Using the Eco Thrifty Retrofit as a case study – https://www.retrosuburbia.com/case-studies/eco-thrifty-retrofit-case-study/ – attendees can expect to learn many of the strategies described in David Holmgren’s book including: eco-renovation; passive solar design; solar energy; energy efficiency; wind protection; annual veggies; fruit trees; backyard fowl; and more.

Before and After

Dr. Nelson Lebo is a leader in New Zealand’s green building movement. He has worked in the sustainability field for over 30 years. Nelson has an undergraduate degree in geology and environmental science, a Masters in education, and a PhD in science education, along with a Diploma in Permaculture.

Saturday 8th September 2:00 – 5:00 $50 with $10 discount on the book for attendees.

This tour is offered as part of Whanganui Permaculture Weekend.

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The Resilient Farm Tour

June 26, 2018 Estwing 1 Comment

Severe weather is in the international news daily. Record forest fires and record flooding are happening simultaneously somewhere on Earth. In New Zealand, we face ever increasing damage and insurance claims due to extreme weather events. No part of the country will avoid the pressures brought on by climate change, especially those living rurally.

The resilient farm tour highlights many steps that can be taken to climate-proof a small farm or lifestyle block on a realistic budget. Topics included: drains, ponds and swales – where are they appropriate and where are they not; using drainage coil and pumps to your advantage; how to adjust to seasonal drought/flood cycles; how to protect stream banks and steep slopes; what species of trees and natives to plant where; wind as liability and as asset; how stock can work to your advantage or disadvantage; the role of Regional Councils; improving soil structure; protecting farm infrastructure; and more.

Dr. Nelson Lebo has been farming off and on for 20 years. He has an undergraduate degree in geology and environmental science, a Masters in education, and a PhD in science education, along with a Diploma in Permaculture.

Sunday, 9^th September 9:00 – 12:00 Kaitiaki Farm Tour – $40

This tour is offered as part of Whanganui Permaculture Weekend.

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Puanga 2018

June 26, 2018 Estwing 1 Comment

We had an amazing family event on the farm this weekend hosting the Kiwi Conservation Club with support from Forest and Bird. Among the great activities were tree planting, stream survey, farm tour, story telling, sing-along, campfire, games, and a traditional hangi for dinner. Young and old alike had an amazing time.

Highlights included finding an endangered species of fish and an eel in our stream, along with planting our 2,000th native plant over the last year and a half. Below are some images of the day.