A new NorthTec course is working with the local hapu to revive traditional gardening at a reconstructed Maori village.
The sustainable rural development course at Rewa's Village, across Kerikeri River from the Stone Store, started in March and offers lessons on two days a week.
Tutor Helen Davis said the aim was to set up a traditional garden for food and medicinal plants and to learn about pre-European gardening. The village, which is operated by Ngati Rehia, was open to the public so the students could engage with visitors.
The students are clearing sites for raised-bed gardens for up to eight varieties of kumara as well as taro, yams, potatoes and gourds.