Organisations Empowering the Community Through Education

Plant to Plate Aotearoa provide hands-on education for tamariki in primary schools across the region, teaching life skills around growing and cooking food. Each Wednesday, a team of volunteers work with classes of 25–30 students. With a focus on kai resilience and food security, students prepare meals using produce grown in their school gardens. From cooking and setting the table to washing up and eating together, they learn the value of connecting over kai. In 2024/25, 542 students took part in the programme. 22 sessions were delivered across 24 schools in the region, including seven in the Manawatū District. 22 schools surveyed reported a 100% satisfaction rate, reflecting that the programme is making a real difference in our community.

Manawatū Historic Vehicle Trust maintains local archives and runs the Coach House Museum on South Street in Feilding. Playing an important role in protecting and promoting our District’s history, the museum is run by a team of dedicated volunteers. The museum was open 360 days over the past financial year, welcoming 4,581 visitors through their doors and hosting three exhibitions. There was a reported increase in international visitors, and due to local history featuring in the school curriculum, primary school visits have also grown in demand. The museum has a positive reputation as a destination in Feilding, with 391 surveyed visitors agreeing they would recommend the museum, and 99% agreeing they learned something new about Manawatū’s history.

Council is proud to support Plant to Plate Aotearoa and the Manawatū Historic Vehicle Trust through the Community Development Priority Services Fund. Both organisations share a common vision, empowering our community through education and align with Council’s strategy; maintaining a high quality of life for all Manawatū District residents.

MDC’s Community Development Priority Services Fund supports non-profit organisations who enhance community well-being, create a sense of belonging and foster social equity. To learn more about the Community Development Priority Services Fund, please visit MDC’s website: Community Development Fund | Manawatū District Council