Celebrating One Year of the Community Garden Project

It started with a shared vision: that in a town as fast-moving and ever-changing as Queenstown, there could be a place where people could slow down, find grounding, and grow something meaningful—together.

On the Autumn evening of 2 April, we gathered at the Queenstown Harvest Community Gardens, marking one full year since the launch of our Community Garden Project. A small but mighty group gathered at our shared plot to celebrate this milestone—not just with food, but with heartfelt stories, shared memories, and a whole lot of gratitude.

We began the evening by doing what we do best—hands in the soil, tending to the garden that has flourished under the care of so many across the last 365 days. There was harvesting, watering, and tidying—each task echoing the quiet rhythm that this space has come to represent. Then, as the tools were set down and gloves swapped for smiles, we sat down for a shared meal, each person bringing a dish to contribute to the table. Some dishes had even been made from homegrown veggies and sprinkled with an extra bit of love.

Then, around our circle, we reflected.

Some spoke of how this plot had offered them peace in the chaos of daily life. Others shared how grounding it felt—literally—to sink their hands into the earth and feel a connection to something bigger. And many shared stories of arriving in Queenstown as newcomers, unsure of where they belonged, only to find unexpected kinship and welcome in a humble garden bed.

Throughout the space, we had strung up printed photographs—snapshots from throughout the year, capturing moments of growth, laughter, and quiet achievement. It was a moving tribute to how far we’ve come, and the many hands and hearts that have helped shape it.

This dream was first seeded by Franco, one of the Trust’s co-founders, and later nurtured by our past Operations Manager, Gemma, whose commitment helped this project find its feet. In the early days of the garden, we also had the warm and generous support of our former Community Connector, José, who helped lay some of the first foundations for community participation and connection in the garden.

Today, the garden thrives under the devoted guidance of Sunny, our Garden Manager, whose care and knowledge have kept the plants (and people!) growing strong.

We also want to acknowledge and thank every single person who has joined us at a working bee, lent a helping hand, shared a meal, offered encouragement, or simply shown up with curiosity and kindness. This garden is your garden too!

This little celebration reminded us that this garden is so much more than veggies and compost—it’s a space where wellbeing, cultural connection, environmental care, and community spirit all grow side by side.

Want to get involved?

Whether you’re an experienced gardener or simply curious to connect with others and learn something new, everyone is welcome.

🌿 Join our Community Garden mailing list to stay in the loop about future working bees, harvest celebrations, and more👇🏻 :

Here’s to another season of learning, sharing, and growing—together. 💚


xoxo Lakes Multicultural Collective