The collaboration between Niva and Yotam Kay and landowners Jeanette Fitzsimons and Harry Parke at Pakaraka Farm serves as an inspiring example of how cooperative land-use arrangements can lead to productive, sustainable, and educational agricultural endeavours.
Background of the Partnership:
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Initial Engagement: In 2014, after travelling globally to explore sustainable living practices, Niva and Yotam began volunteering at Pakaraka Farm, which was established in 1991 by long-time organic farmers Harry Parke and his wife, the late Green MP and environmentalist Jeanette Fitzsimons. Recognising the alignment of their values and vision, Niva and Yotam leased a portion of the land to start a market garden.
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Co-Ownership: Their commitment deepened as they decided to put down roots by purchasing half of the 215-acre farm. This arrangement led to a co-ownership model where responsibilities and resources are shared among the parties.
Operational Dynamics:
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Market Gardening: Niva and Yotam established Pakaraka Permaculture, a quarter-acre market garden, on the farm. Despite the site's challenges, such as sloped terrain and compacted soil, they have successfully cultivated over 10,000 kg of organic produce annually, generating significant income.
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Shared Resources: The partnership involves collaborative management of the farm's diverse resources, including olive, chestnut, and pecan orchards, as well as livestock. While Niva and Yotam focus on the market garden, they work alongside Harry to harvest and process crops from these orchards, demonstrating a cooperative approach to land stewardship.
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Education and Outreach: Together with Harry, Niva and Yotam run the Pakaraka Permaculture Education Centre, offering workshops on regenerative living, organic gardening, and sustainable practices. This educational initiative underscores their commitment to sharing knowledge and fostering a community centred around sustainable agriculture.
Significance of the Arrangement:
This unique land-use arrangement highlights several key aspects:
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Sustainable Land Stewardship: By integrating their expertise and resources, the partners have transformed marginal land into a productive and regenerative agricultural enterprise.
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Collaborative Ownership Models: The co-ownership structure demonstrates how shared investment and responsibility can lead to successful and sustainable land management.
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Community Engagement: Through educational programs and workshops, the partnership extends its impact beyond the farm, contributing to broader societal awareness and practice of sustainable agriculture.
