TROPPO, A Living Example of Kai Resilience in Te Puke

Troppo isn’t just a garden; it’s a living, breathing testament to what’s possible when permaculture meets passion. This isn’t your typical backyard plot—it’s an urban tropical food forest nestled right in the heart of Te Puke, the “kiwifruit capital.” It’s a key initiative of the Vector Group Charitable Trust and a vibrant example of our Grow Te Puke banner in action. Check out some more info on the Food Forest Tours website 

The team behind Troppo has a bold mission: to challenge the idea that tropical fruits can’t thrive in New Zealand. Imagine harvesting your own bananas, papayas, guavas, and even rare cacao. This project is a living experiment in kai resilience, demonstrating how we can transform urban spaces into abundant, productive landscapes that boost food security and biodiversity.

A Masterclass in Sustainable Design

What makes Troppo truly special is its design. It’s a multi-layered ecosystem that mimics a natural forest, with a canopy of trees, a layer of shrubs, and groundcover all working in harmony. This smart system maximizes productivity while minimizing maintenance. The Troppo team is a hub of innovation, experimenting with cutting-edge techniques like syntropic agroforestry and raised beds. Their findings provide invaluable insights that can be shared with the wider community.

A Hub for Knowledge and Connection

Beyond the plants, Troppo is a vital community hub for learning and collaboration. The project’s dedicated team shares its wealth of knowledge through workshops, articles, and engaging videos. This commitment to education and skill-sharing is a core part of the Vector Group Charitable Trust’s mission—to empower people to build their own food systems and become more self-sufficient.

Troppo is more than just a place to grow food; it’s a powerful reminder that a thriving, regenerative future is within reach. It’s a space where a passion for plants grows alongside a deep commitment to community, creating a model of sustainability that is both beautiful and bountiful. To see the magic for yourself, you can visit their website at troppo.nz.