The Sustainable Backyards Trail, Aotearoa’s longest running sustainable garden festival is now followed by a week of innovative and sustainable builds and farms.
programme now available - Booklets & online
The backyards trail
Gardeners on a journey to work in harmony with nature rather than against it.
The Builds Trail
Connect with owners and experts who have decided to build with the environment in mind.
The Farms Trail
Walk and talk with farmers who share aspects of their agriculture that prioritise the environment.
Sustainable backyards FEATURE EVENTS
A hands-on workshop to understand the basics of seed saving and how to get started ($45) 5 Nov (Wed) 6pm-8pm.
An evening of tasting and treats, hearing from the remarkable wāhine shaping sustainable enterprise ($45) 1 Nov (Sat) 4pm-6pm
Explore the world of edible mushrooms and learn how to grow your own at home successfully ($50) 3 Nov (Mon) 6-8pm
Grab your e-bike and join our informative and flavoursome guided tour around urban Backyards ($75) 1 & 2 Nov (Sat & Sun) 9am-1pm
Enjoy small group transport to fantastic Backyards around the region ($65-$85) 1 & 2, 8 & 9 Nov (Sat & Sun)
Learn to layout a lifestyle block for low maintenance and maximum yield and joy ($50-$60) 31 Oct (Fri) 3pm-5.30pm
Explore the hidden, living ecosystem in soil - the theory alongside the art of putting it into practice ($25) 4 Nov (Tue) 5.30pm-7.30pm
Walk to touch, taste and discover medicinal plants and first aid poultices with Cat Neale ($20) 7 Nov 10am-11am
Learn about cutting bills and saving the planet with Mike Casey! ($15) 10 Nov 5.30pm-8.30pm
Join the New Zealand Institute of Architects for an insightful talk on sustainable design ($25) 13 Nov 6.30pm-7.30pm
Find out how to reduce operational costs & boost income by going electric (free for farmers) 10 Nov 12.30pm-2.30pm
Experience a live butchery demonstration and enjoy a tasting menu featuring a range of cuts ($60) 14 Nov 7pm-8.30pm
check out all range of events
Come visit THE envirohub (TRAILS HUB)
Super deals on honey, seeds, and a selection of gift vouchers!
The EnviroHub, next to Brooklands Zoo.
Regular hours 9.30am-2.30pm Tues, Wed & Thu.
Know a great property?
If you have a backyard, farm or build in mind, let us know a few details and we’ll check it out! It could be yours or someone you know.
Keen to volunteer?
We’d love you to be involved helping hosts in the garden before the Trails, and welcoming visitors during Trail around the region, including the Trail Hub.
Want to be the first to know?
Follow us on social media and our seasonal pānui (newsletter) for updates, giveaways, and ideas related to all things Sustainable Trails.
CHECK OUT TRAIL MEDIA & DIY VIDEOS
Organised By the team at
STRATEGIC PARTNERS & CORE funders
For all regional information and accommodation options, visit venture.org.nz