Community kai: talking all things food at Wānaka Library

The library in Wānaka is set to play host to a series of food-related chats in the latest of its Meangingful Conversations events.

Hot topics in the week of scheduled conversations include creating an edible garden from scratch, composting kitchen waste, cooking with less waste and with the seasons, and foraging for food.

Librarian Eve Marshall-Lea says it will also be a celebration of all the "amazing food related initiatives already happening in our community", like shared garden and community produce pantries. 

Inspiring green fingers is Grow Wānaka's community edible garden (Image: Facebook/Grow Wānaka).

"We have partnered with a variety of local experts who are volunteering their time and knowledge to share with the community.

"Even if you are a seasoned gardener or class yourself as a foodie who loves taking risks in the kitchen, there is something for you, the kids too."

The full-programme is available to view on the library's website and some activities have limited spaces available, so bookings are essential.

The week-long series of events kicks off on Thursday, September 7, with a speakers panel including Dr Compost Ben Elms, Grow Wānaka's Emberly Weatherall, Kiwi Harvest's Gary Hough, Hāwea Forest's Diana Manson, and two keen and skilled home gardeners.

Also in the calendar of events, a spring gardening and seed raising workshop with Erin Allison from Harvest Homegrown, cooking with Naomi Lindsay, and herbal brews and foraging with Loran Verpillot. 

The series has been made possible by funding from Te Hau Toka Southern Wellbeing Group and the volunteer speakers.

Main image (Facebook/Wānaka Library).