Richard Kirby
Environment Coordinator
Ko Richard Kirby ahau.
I am the Environmental Coordinator at Te Waipuna Puawai, based in West Auckland. My mahi focuses on environmental restoration, and community planting projects.
I’m passionate about creating opportunities for communities to reconnect with the whenua, grow kai, and build stronger, more resilient futures together.
Whether it's planting native trees, working in the māra kai, or supporting community events, it's rewarding seeing people come together. I especially enjoy seeing whānau gain new knowledge they can take home and use in their own lives. I enjoy seeing people connect with the environment and with one another.
While planting and restoration are important, a big part of the mahi is building relationships, supporting volunteers, working with community groups, and creating opportunities for people. The environmental outcomes happen because people come together to make them happen.
When communities are connected, they are stronger, more resilient, and better able to respond to challenges. Some of the best outcomes happen when people share their skills, knowledge, and time for the benefit of others.
Whether it's through growing food, learning new skills, connecting with support, or getting involved in community projects, I hope people leave feeling more empowered in their ability to contribute, and create positive change for themselves and their whānau.
