Harinui Early Learning Centre in Kerikeri is making the most of a $1600 grant through Northland Regional Council’s Environmental Leaders Fund (ELF).

Since receiving the ELF grant at the end of 2023, Harinui’s staff and tamariki have been working hard to create and maintain a functioning worm farm and mini recycling centre. This new initiative aims to educate and inspire young tamariki, empowering them to reduce waste and become climate action champions.

Kaiako (teachers) started by carefully selecting an accessible location for the recycling bins. Safety and simplicity were prioritised in this process to ensure the project was suitable for Harinui’s under-3 cohort. A design was mocked up which involved creating slots in an existing fence and placing bins on the other side.

Once a plan was finalised, building was next on the agenda. Wood and hinges for the fence slots, bins, and a worm farm were purchased with ELF funds. Kaiako and tamariki collaborated to measure and cut the wood to appropriate lengths, fit the slots into the fence, and install ramps to channel recyclables into the correct bins. Tamariki also assisted in rejuvenating the gardens surrounding their new recycling centre, helping to make the area a more inviting space for all.

Next came another hands-on activity for the tamariki, helping to install the worm farm. Soil was laid and locally collected worms were added to the mix. This addition has already transformed the way waste is processed at Harinui, keeping it out of the landfill, and creating an eco-friendly fertilizer in the process.

The worm farm and mini recycling centre are providing tamariki the opportunity to learn about the value of sustainability through hands-on experience. Kaiako have instilled the importance of climate action through processing waste on-site and keeping it away from landfills. Tamariki also revelled at the opportunity to use the many tools which allowed this project to come to life.

Congratulations to Harinui Early Learning Centre for this amazing mahi - it’s fabulous seeing this wonderful project come to life.