Ngā Rākau o te Ngākau: Think Global, Act Local.

What started as a goal to plant 500 native trees became a movement that united communities, 1,323 participants, mana whenua, schools, environmental organisations, and community partners in a shared vision for a healthier future. Together, tamariki, whānau and kaiako planted and distributed more than 1,100 native trees and plants, restored waterways, created habitats for native species, and strengthened biodiversity across Auckland and the Rodney/Hibiscus Coast region.

At a national level, the project demonstrates how early childhood education can make a meaningful contribution to Aotearoa New Zealand's environmental and climate ambitions. Through native planting, riparian restoration, habitat creation and seed propagation, tamariki were active participants in ecosystem regeneration and climate action, contributing to healthier waterways, increased biodiversity and long-term carbon sequestration. The project is estimated to remove approximately 243 tonnes of CO₂ over the next 50 years while restoring local environments for future generations.

The impact extends beyond environmental outcomes. Guided by mātauranga Māori and strengthened through partnerships with Te Kawerau ā Maki, Ngāti Manuhiri and Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei, tamariki developed a deep understanding of their role as kaitiaki. Through authentic experiences of caring for whenua, awa and ngahere, they learned that positive change happens when communities work together with shared purpose.

Internationally, this kaupapa demonstrates a scalable model for planetary health education. Kaitiaki Kindergartens' selection as a HundrED Spotlight for Planetary Health Education recognises the project's innovative approach to empowering young children as environmental leaders while connecting learning with real-world action.

The project aligns strongly with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals by supporting environmental stewardship, sustainability education, climate resilience, biodiversity restoration, and collaborative partnerships across iwi, schools, businesses, environmental groups, and local communities.

Ngā Rākau o te Ngākau proves that when tamariki are empowered to act, small hands can create lasting change. From local reserves and kindergarten gardens to international recognition on the world stage, this kaupapa is growing more than trees. It is growing environmental leaders, stronger communities, and a legacy of kaitiakitanga for generations to come.