The Keen Gardeners Group, a multi‑generational gardening initiative kickstarted by a $13,553 grant from the Office for Seniors’ Age Friendly Fund has been in the press this week: https://www.thepress.co.nz/home-property/360833906/older-gardeners-share-their-expertise-knowledge-lost
Founded by Dr Tamika Simpson and Dr Lisa Williams, the group connects older gardeners with their community, researchers, and younger participants, preserving traditional gardening knowledge and fostering community bonds. To date, the group have held community sessions and developed posters to share their gardening knowledge. Future aspirations are for research and community projects that bring children and older adults together, and where matauranga Māori is brought to life through gardening.
Gardening offers multiple benefits: it combats loneliness (nearly 30% of over-65s report frequent social isolation), provides low-cost fresh produce—even in small spaces—and enhances mental and physical wellbeing by reducing stress, promoting exercise, and nurturing a sense of belonging. Further, homegrown food contributes to food security and environmental sustainability, avoiding the carbon footprint associated with commercial agriculture.
Beyond practical advantages, the project aims to tackle ageism by recognising older adults as custodians of horticultural wisdom, passed down through generations.
Join the Keen Gardeners Group for a session on Native Plants for Biodiversity at Auckland Botanic Gardens on November 20 at 10am.
For further information, please contact Dr Tamika Simpson, tamika.simpson@auckland.ac.nz or Professor Melody Smith, melody.smith@auckland.ac.nz
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