Richmond Road School in Grey Lynn has been named the winner of the 2026 Enviroschools National Award for its innovative student-led composting and kai garden programme, beating more than 200 entries from across the country. The programme, which began three years ago with a single raised bed, now spans a 200-square-metre food garden, a three-bin composting system, and a weekly produce stall where students sell surplus vegetables to the local community.
Students take the lead
Year 6 student Maia Thompson-Kaa, who serves as the school's 'Garden Prefect', said the programme had changed how students thought about food. 'We used to just throw everything in the bin. Now we see waste as something that can grow new things,' she said. Principal Sarah Edmonds said the award reflected the school's commitment to weaving sustainability into the curriculum rather than treating it as an add-on. 'Every class has a role in the garden — from the Year 1s who do seed planting to the Year 6s who manage the compost and sales.'
Community impact
The school has also partnered with the Arch Hill Community Fridge, donating surplus produce each Friday. Coordinator Ana Reyes said the contributions had become a reliable source of fresh vegetables for local families. 'It's beautiful to see children this young understanding the connection between growing food and looking after their neighbours,' Reyes said. The school will receive $5,000 in funding to expand the programme, with plans to add a native plant nursery and rainwater collection system.
