The student-led plant team growing Rotokauri Campus

Placed around the edges of a memorial to a former culinary student who tragically died in a car accident are the flourishing seeds of a new campus project.

Wintec culinary students have a new kitchen garden to support their learning, thanks to the work of level 4 and 2 horticulture students.

The revitalised kitchen garden is the work of Wintec’s horticultural students, who have been busy putting their learning into practice.

Level 4 student Tuhi-Mareikura Hopa-Thomson is leading the charge, rebuilding the raised bed with fresh ingredients to meet the practical needs of Wintec’s culinary students.

“It’s an exciting challenge,” she said. “It’s awesome taking the lead in this part of my study.”

The herb bed had fallen into disrepair over the term break, requiring a new bed of soil and plants, a challenge Tuhi-Mareikura was excited to take on with the help of some level 2 students.

Wintec's kitchen garden in January 2026, before work on the revitalisation project began.

It was also home to Elizabeth (Liz) Neels’ memorial, who died in 2005, and Tuhi-Mareikura said it was important to factor that into her garden’s design.

“We're planting edible flowers, giving hospitality students access to a usable resource while respecting the space.”

Wintec horticulture students stand proudly beside their kitchen garden project.

The student-led project received strong industry support, receiving a donation of 144 fresh herb plants donated by wholesale nursery Living Herbs.

“I love getting more people out in the garden. It contributes to a healthy lifestyle, and herbs are easy to grow,” said Mark Riethmaier, Director of Living Herbs.

“We’re always happy to support coaching and training in horticulture. Helping the next generation get started in the industry is something we really value.”

Level 4 horticulture students beside their professional interior plant display in Wintec's Rotokauri Campus staff offices.

Earlier in the year, the level 4 students designed and created professional interior plant displays in Wintec’s Rotokauri Campus staff offices and training restaurant, Windows.

“It was a great opportunity to showcase on campus what we’ve learned,” said the group.

“Our goal was to create a green space, adding a natural element to Wintec’s office. Softening the space and bringing life to it.

“Plants are a great way to calm the mind, but there are so many benefits. Here, the plants should improve the air quality, improve oxygen levels, and mental wellbeing.”

Interior plant display adds fresh burst of greenery to Wintec offices.

The group hopes to inspire more people to pick up gardening.