Events
Huihuinga
Christchurch Eco Church Gathering
A gathering for people involved in Eco Churches and people interested in being an Eco Church. With input from presenters about creation care topics and space to talk and share about the why and how of being on the eco church journey.
He Māhuri Tōtara for Leaders - Raglan
He Māhuri Tōtara is A Rocha’s core Christian environmental leadership development programme that we offer to Eco Churches. The programme explores the unique environmental challenges and opportunities of our world and the biblical imperative to care for creation in the unique context of Aotearoa. The courses are a mixture of workshops, hands-on activities, outdoor adventures and building relationships with likeminded people.
This course is for anyone involved in youth ministry — youth pastors and youth leaders who want to be equipped to support young people in their passion to care for creation.
For more information: https://www.ecochurch.org.nz/he-mahuri-totara-programme
Kahikatea Kids Holiday Programme
Kahikatea Kids Holiday Programme
EXPLORE | RESTORE | WONDER
New Nature-Based Holiday Programme – July School Holidays
We’re excited to pilot a brand-new day camp this July in Ōtautahi Christchurch! Designed for children aged 8–12, this hands-on, nature-based programme invites young explorers to connect deeply with God’s creation and discover what it means to care for it.
Running from 1st–4th July, 9am–3pm each day, we'll meet each morning at South West Baptist Church, before heading out to a range of beautiful natural spaces around the city.
Activities include:
- Exploring local parks, rivers, and shorelines
- Visiting community gardens
- Learning about pest trapping and conservation
- Cooking on outdoor cookers
- Reflecting on God’s goodness through nature-based activities
With plenty of time for fun, friendship, and meaningful discovery, this programme offers a rich way for children to grow in faith and care for the environment.
Four-day programme - Registration and cost is for the full 4 days.
Cost: $100 per child (This year’s programme is subsidised)
Children bring their own lunch and water bottle.
Spaces are limited—register now to secure your spot!
If finances are a barrier, please don’t hesitate to get in touch—we may be able to offer scholarships to ensure every child who’s keen can take part.
Contact Di at diana.johnston@arocha.org for more info.
Nelson Eco Church Gathering
A gathering to connect and learn about how we engage with sustainability and creation care in our church communities.
A Rocha National Hui 2025
We’re excited to announce that the A Rocha National Hui is back! Join us for a weekend of inspiration, connection, and hands-on action at the beautiful Living Springs.
A Rocha National Hui
15–17 August
Living Springs, Banks Peninsula
Christchurch
Jay Matenga will be our keynote speaker, and the weekend will feature a range of workshops, discussions, and practical conservation activities. Whether you're part of an Eco Church or an A Rocha local group, or working in sustainability, or simply passionate about caring for God’s creation, this is a fantastic opportunity to be encouraged and equipped.
Highlights include:
Inspiring sessions with Jay Matenga
Practical conservation projects
Workshops on faith, ecology, and community action
Time to connect with others from across Aotearoa
Can’t make the full weekend? No problem—there are flexible options to attend as day visitors.
Check-in from Friday 2pm.
Hui starts with the Friday evening meal.
Official programme starts on Friday evening.
Hui ends after lunch on Sunday.
Don’t miss this powerful time of learning, worship, and connection. We’d love to see you there!
Any questions? Email Di at diana.johnston@arocha.org
He Māhuri Tōtara for Leaders - Auckland
He Māhuri Tōtara is A Rocha’s core Christian environmental leadership development programme that we offer to Eco Churches. The programme explores the unique environmental challenges and opportunities of our world and the biblical imperative to care for creation in the unique context of Aotearoa. The courses are a mixture of workshops, hands-on activities, outdoor adventures and building relationships with likeminded people.
This course is for anyone involved in youth ministry — youth pastors and youth leaders who want to be equipped to support young people in their passion to care for creation.
For more information: https://www.ecochurch.org.nz/he-mahuri-totara-programme
He Māhuri Tōtara for Youth - Christchurch
He Māhuri Tōtara is A Rocha’s core Christian environmental leadership development programme that we offer to Eco Churches. The programme explores the unique environmental challenges and opportunities of our world and the biblical imperative to care for creation in the unique context of Aotearoa. The courses are a mixture of workshops, hands-on activities, outdoor adventures and building relationships with likeminded people.
This course is for high-school youth who are passionate about their faith and the environment and want to understand how these are related.
For more information: https://www.ecochurch.org.nz/he-mahuri-totara-programme
He Māhuri Tōtara for Leaders - Dunedin
He Māhuri Tōtara is A Rocha’s core Christian environmental leadership development programme that we offer to Eco Churches. The programme explores the unique environmental challenges and opportunities of our world and the biblical imperative to care for creation in the unique context of Aotearoa. The courses are a mixture of workshops, hands-on activities, outdoor adventures and building relationships with likeminded people.
This course is for anyone involved in youth ministry — youth pastors and youth leaders who want to be equipped to support young people in their passion to care for creation.
For more information: https://www.ecochurch.org.nz/he-mahuri-totara-programme
A Rocha-World Vision 40 Hour Challenge Conservation Event - AUCKLAND
We’re excited to invite your church and youth group to be part of the World Vision 40 Hour Challenge Weekend Conservation event – a powerful opportunity to engage young people in raising funds for climate exacerbated food insecurity in the Pacific, while also actively participating in local conservation efforts that combat climate change.
A Rocha is making it easy for youth groups to get involved in an environmental challenge for the World Vision 40 Hour Challenge Weekend! We are hosting a Conservation Event for youth groups in Tamaki Makaurau, Auckland. Bring your youth group and join in with other youth groups, doing our bit for conservation.
Saturday 14 June 2025
1:30pm - 3:30pm
Unsworth Reserve, Unsworth Heights, Auckland
A Rocha-World Vision 40 Hour Challenge Conservation Event - CHRISTCHURCH
We’re excited to invite your church and youth group to be part of the World Vision 40 Hour Challenge Weekend Conservation event – a powerful opportunity to engage young people in raising funds for climate exacerbated food insecurity in the Pacific, while also actively participating in local conservation efforts that combat climate change.
A Rocha is making it easy for youth groups to get involved in an environmental challenge for the World Vision 40 Hour Challenge Weekend! We are hosting a Conservation Event for youth groups in Ōtautahi Christchurch. Bring your youth group and join in with other youth groups, doing our bit for conservation.
Saturday 14 June 2025
12:30pm - 2:30pm
Southshore Spit Reserve
Wellington Eco Church Gathering
A gathering for people involved in Eco Churches and people interested in being an Eco Church. With input from presenters about creation care topics and space to talk and share about the why and how of being on the eco church journey.
Eco Church Partners Lunchtime Kōrero
Eco Church Partners Lunchtime Kōrero:
Launch of the A Rocha Eco Action Planner for Christian Organisations
Thursday 29 May 2025
12:30–1:30pm (Online via Zoom)
Join us for a special Eco Church Partners Kōrero where we’ll be launching the brand new A Rocha Eco Action Planner for Christian Organisations — a practical resource designed to help faith-based organisations reflect, plan and take meaningful steps on their creation care journey.
Whether you're part of a denominational office, Christian NGO, para-church ministry or Christian school, this session is for you. The A Rocha Eco Action Planner offers a flexible and inspiring framework to help your team explore where you're at and where you're heading in areas like leadership, facilities, land care, community engagement, sustainable living, and events.
We’ll briefly walk through the resource together and share how it could be used in your context. You’re also invited to bring your stories about how creation care is being explored in your organisation, so we can learn from one another. Bring your lunch, your curiosity, and your heart for caring for creation.
Eco Church Kōrero: How your church can engage with Matariki
Eco Church Kōrero - How your church can engage with Matariki
Nau mai, haere mai - Join us for our once a term online eco church korero!
This time, Dr Jay Matenga (World Evangelical Alliance) and Brendon McRae (Flagstaff Community Church, Dunedin) will share wisdom, resources and practical ideas about how churches can engage with Matariki.
If you're involved with helping your church on their eco church journey, this online korero is for you! As well as input from our presenters, there will be time for sharing in groups with other eco church champions from churches around the country.
Monday 19th May, 7:00pm - 8:30pm, via Zoom
Auckland Sustainability Champions Workshop
Come and join us at the Auckland Sustainability Champions Workshop - in partnership with the Anglican Diocese of Auckland:
Saturday, 17th of May 2025
9:30am to 2:30pm
St Mary by the Sea, Torbay
Come and connect with other Auckland churches and Eco Church folk. We'll be joined by Andrew Shamy, who is going to share on holding to hope in the face of climate change. We will then be joined by Climate Club, who will be running their Climate Fresk workshop with us. The day will then end with a working bee in St Mary's garden for those who would like to join.
Eco Church Conservation Kōrero
Conservation Kōrero:
Join us for our Conservation Kōrero! This kōrero will provide inspiration to anyone passionate about conservation and caring for creation, including our Eco Church community and A Rocha local groups working in the biodiversity and conservation space. Especially relevant to local group leaders and members, conservation leaders and volunteers, and church members wanting to get involved in biodiversity work and conservation projects in their local places.
Join us to hear from Anna Yeoman as she shares with us her journey into conservation, her incredible work with Mokomoko Dryland Sanctuary in Central Otago, and her book, Geckos & Skinks: The remarkable lizards of Aotearoa (2024).
Monday 31 March 2025, 7pm-8:30pm via zoom.
Register here for the zoom link.
Waikato Eco Church Gathering
A gathering in Waikato to connect and learn about how we engage with sustainability and Creation Care in our church communities. Join us!
Waikato Eco Church Gathering
Saturday, 8 March 2025
2pm - 4pm
Chartwell Cooperating Church
126 Comries Road, Chartwell, Hamilton
The Good News Project Restoration Day
The Good News Project provides a space where rangatahi not only hear the Good News but also live it out through hands-on biodiversity restoration projects.
By bringing young people together, this initiative demonstrates the power of collective action and shared purpose in addressing environmental challenges. A living example of faith in action.
The next Good News Project restoration day is:
Saturday, 1 March 2025
12:30pm - 2:30pm
Southshore Spit Reserve
New Brighton
In partnership with CYS Easter Camp’s BIGTOP event.
BONUS! Register your Youth Group for the Good News Project restoration day on 1 March 2025, and get free tickets for all participating youth to the BIGTOP event organised by CYS Southern Easter Camp!
For more information, check out: https://www.ecochurch.org.nz/the-good-news-project
Participation is by youth group, rather than individual sign-ups. If you’re keen, send the details to your youth group leaders and ask them to get in touch with James Beck.
Eco Conscious Conversations for Young Adults
Calling all young adults in Auckland!
Join us for a meaningful conversation on Creation Care—what it means to truly care for our world.
St Heliers Beach | 6:30 PM
Let’s connect, reflect, and take action together.
For more info, email millie.vette@arocha.org
See you there!
Hawkes Bay Eco Church Gathering
Join us at the Hawkes Bay Eco Church Gathering on Saturday 22 February 2025, 10am-12noon at The Octagon, Taradale Anglican Church, Napier. A gathering in the Hawkes Bay to connect and learn about how we engage with sustainability and Creation Care in our church communities.
Why Does Nature Matter? By Peter Harris
A Rocha Co-Founder, Peter Harris will examine the beliefs that underlie the conservation effort, which range from a conviction that we need nature to survive, to more mystical explanations about its intrinsic value. Find out how the Christian faith provides a beautifully coherent explanation of why nature matters, and explore potential reasons why despite that Christian communities have often been slow to engage with our current crises in the biosphere, if at all.
You can read more about Peter Harris here.
WHY DOES NATURE MATTER?
South West Baptist Church
244 Lyttelton Street
Spreydon
Christchurch 8024
Saturday, 15 February 2025
7pm - 8:30pm
Koha entry
Invercargill Eco Church Gathering
A gathering in Invercargill to connect and learn about how we engage with sustainability and Creation Care in our church communities. Join us!
Invercargill Eco Church Gathering
Thursday, 13 February 2025
7pm - 9pm
St Lukes in The Bush
10 Black Road
Otatara, Invercargill
Eco Church Kaihāpai Kōrero
Kaihāpai Kōrero:
Our first Kaihāpai Kōrero for 2025 is coming up in early February! If you're involved in an eco church team at your church (or interested in becoming an eco church) this online korero is for you.
At our first gathering for the year we'll be looking at how to mobilise and energise your church to get eco-active in 2025. There will be top tips to get your group passionate and active, inspiration from some eco church leaders, and time for us to share and discuss together in groups.
Monday 10 Feb 2025, 7pm-8:30pm via zoom.
Register here for the zoom link.
E3 Young Adults - Nelson Lakes National Park
When: Feb 3-9 2025
Cost: $350
Age: 19 - 25
It is with great excitement that we announce the 3rd Annual E3 Young Adult 2025 will be in the stunning Nelson Lakes National Park. Nelson Lakes National Park (NLNP) is home to deep lakes, surrounded by big mountains. Beech Forests are on full display along with bird life to remember for a lifetime. This E3YA will be anchored by 3+ days of tramping/hiking along with paddling on the amazing Lake Rotoiti and mountain biking on nearby trails. The scenery will only enhance the conversations around faith and its intersections with life.
Transportation available from Christchurch & back on Feb 3rd & 9th.
This is limited to 12 people, so don’t miss out.
For more info and to register:
https://sunz.org.nz/event/young-adults/
E3 Central North Island
When: 15 - 21 December 2024
Who: School Year 12 & 13 in 2024, Co-ed
Cost: $350
E3 is a partnership between Scripture Union NZ, Adventure Specialties Trust and A Rocha Aotearoa NZ. E3 ministries believe that wilderness experiences are significant - helping us to understand ourselves better and deepening our relationships with others, with God, and with God's creation.
The expedition is an 7-day journey. Starting from Mt Ruapehu, for the first two days we'll tramp through parts of Tongariro National Park, walking through dense forest, crossing glacial-fed rivers and traversing alpine passes. We’ll change things up the following day as we cycle to the start of our canoeing journey, giving our legs a break and using paddles to guide us along the breath-taking Whanganui River for three days. Back on dry land, we'll jump back on our bikes and maybe have another taste of those kayaks once more!
For more info and to register:
https://sunz.org.nz/event/central-north-island/
E3 Otago
When: 10 - 21 December 2024
Who: School Year 12 & 13 in 2024, Co-ed
Cost: $500
E3 is a partnership between Scripture Union NZ, Adventure Specialties Trust and A Rocha Aotearoa NZ. E3 ministries believe that wilderness experiences are significant - helping us to understand ourselves better and deepening our relationships with others, with God, and with God's creation.
This once in a lifetime wilderness adventure will traverse remote and spectacular landscapes from Haast Pass to Wānaka by foot, pedal and paddle. Along the way we’ll engage in practical conservation, explore our faith, develop leadership and outdoor skills while reflecting on the opportunities and possibilities of life after school.
*Transport to/from camp can be provided from Queenstown or Wanaka
For more info and to register:
https://sunz.org.nz/event/otago/
E3 Bay of Islands
When: 10 - 21 December 2024
Who: School Year 12 & 13 in 2024, Co-ed
Cost: $500
E3 is a partnership between Scripture Union NZ, Adventure Specialties Trust and A Rocha Aotearoa NZ. E3 ministries believe that wilderness experiences are significant - helping us to understand ourselves better and deepening our relationships with others, with God, and with God's creation.
Starting in the "epicentre" of our bicultural journey in Aotearoa New Zealand we begin E3 with a Pōwhiri at Waitangi. This recognizes the Whenua & Moana nui that we will travel on. Traveling by sea kayak for a few days we embrace the important intersection of faith and te ao Māori around the Bay of Islands. Then we engage our legs to hike the sights of Cape Brett and its beauty. From there we switch to pedal power and bike south along the coast continuing to embrace our focus of leadership development, faith formation and creation care. Finally, take in one more chance to carry a pack for a couple of days, ending at Whananaki.
For more info and to register:
https://sunz.org.nz/event/bay-of-islands/
E3 Canterbury
When: 10 - 21 December 2024
Who: School Year 12 & 13 in 2024, Co-ed
Cost: $500
E3 is a partnership between Scripture Union NZ, Adventure Specialties Trust and A Rocha Aotearoa NZ. E3 ministries believe that wilderness experiences are significant - helping us to understand ourselves better and deepening our relationships with others, with God, and with God's creation.
One of the most memorable leadership experiences you will ever have as you join with others to tramp through the Lewis Pass mountains, bike through the Canterbury High Country and raft the Clarence River. Join us for a once in a lifetime opportunity to explore the central South Island with a small group of senior students. E3 will help you develop your faith, leadership and outdoor skills while reflecting on the opportunities and possibilities of life after school.
For more info and to register:
https://sunz.org.nz/event/canterbury/
Eco-Advent Wānanga: How to make Christmas at your church more sustainable
Join us for the Eco-Advent Wānanga, a practical and inspiring online workshop designed to help churches and individuals integrate sustainable practices into their Christmas services and events. Explore ways to reduce environmental impact while embracing the spiritual rhythms of the season in a way that makes sense for Aotearoa. Celebrate the coming of Christ with a heart for creation, and discover how small, intentional changes can make a lasting difference this Christmas.
We’ll hear creative stories and ideas from church communities and discuss together how churches can lead by example in caring for creation and fostering sustainability during the Advent season.
We will also hear from Michael Frost who is a theologian and co-leader of Edge Kingsland, an eco church in Auckland. He hosts the In The Shift podcast, which explores embodied spirituality in our contemporary world. Michael will share insights on how the story of Christmas invites us into reflection and action to care for God’s good creation.
Monday 18 November 2024, 7:00pm - 8:30pm, via Zoom
Register below to receive the zoom link.
Eco Church Conservation Kōrero
This kōrero will provide inspiration to anyone passionate about conservation and caring for creation, including our Eco Church community and A Rocha local groups working in the biodiversity and conservation space. Especially relevant to local group leaders and members, conservation leaders and volunteers, and church members wanting to get involved in biodiversity work and conservation projects in their local places.
Join us to hear from Professor Carolyn (Kim) King who is A Rocha's patron and New Zealand’s foremost authority on invasive mammals and world-renowned for her contribution to ecology – especially mustelids – stoats, weasels and ferrets. In addition to her conservation research and work, Kim King has also been active as an author and theologian in the Anglican Church promoting care for creation. Kim will share with us a bit about herself and also explore the topic - killing for conservation.
Monday 4 November 2024, 7:00pm - 8:00pm, via Zoom
Register below and we’ll send you the zoom link.
Eco Church Kaihāpai Kōrero
Kaihāpai Kōrero:
If you're part of the Eco Church team in your church, the Kaihāpai Kōrero is for you! This once a term online gathering is open to all Eco Church kaihāpai from churches around the country. The Kaihāpai Kōrero is a space for listening, sharing and learning together about the joys and challenges of being on the eco church journey.
THIS TERM'S TOPIC: USING THE NEW ECO CHURCH ACTION PLANNER
Are you needing some help turning your eco church dreams into actionable steps? At our next Kaihāpai Kōrero, we'll be introducing you to our revised and renewed ECO CHURCH ACTION PLANNER - formerly known as the Eco Church Self-Assessment Worksheet. We've spent some time listening and working on a new guide which will help churches turn their eco goals into manageable tasks.
Monday 21st October, 7pm-8pm via zoom.
Register here and we'll send you a zoom link.
SUSTAIN Camp
Join us on an adventure-based camp in Whāingaroa Raglan to explore many different expressions of faith and the local environment! We’ll be exploring the secret paths of Karioi Maunga as we build traps, check the trapping lines and appreciate a remote campfire. We’ll be learning where our food comes from as we visit and help out on a local farm with the most spectacular views! We’ll also be venturing across different shored for swims and surfs as we consider the significance of water.
Brought to you by Scripture Union, in partnership with A Rocha Aotearoa New Zealand | Karioi Project.
He Māhuri Tōtara - For high-school students
He Māhuri Tōtara is a Christian environmental leadership development course.
The course explores the unique environmental challenges and opportunities of our world and the biblical imperative to care for creation in the context of Aotearoa New Zealand.
The experience is full of workshops, hands-on activities, outdoor adventures and building relationships with likeminded people.
He Māhuri Tōtara for youth will be based at Te Ahi Kaa in Ōtautahi.
30 Sept – 4 Oct 2024
We will be sleeping marae style at Te Ahi Kaa.
There is a one-off confirmation fee of $50 which is payable after your registration has been confirmed, however, there is no cost to attend He Māhuri Tōtara. This leadership programme is brought to you by A Rocha’s Eco Church project with support from The Wilberforce Foundation.
Find out more here: https://www.hemahuritotara.org/
Or email: kiaora@hemahuritotara.org
Auckland Season of Creation Retreat #2
This Season of Creation, September 2024, we invite you to gather with us to reflect, listen, and wonder at God's creation. We'll be guided in prayer together and in individual contemplation of God's amazing creativity.
This is the second of two retreats. It will conclude the month of Season of Creation and be the final time we gather in contemplation of God's creation. We'll meet at Māngere Maunga (at the domain playground), where land meets sky, for a couple hours in the afternoon.
Bring weather-appropriate clothing and a journal.
RSVP for one or both retreats here: bit.ly/SOCretreat
Eco Church Wānanga - Creating Sacred Spaces: Weaving Creation Care into Worship
Join us for an inspiring online wānanga designed specifically for church leaders and Eco Church Kaihāpai. In this session, a panel of experienced church leaders will help us explore creative ways to curate worship spaces that reflect and involve God’s creation, weave creation care into biblical readings and preaching, and develop all-age worship experiences that draw us closer to the Creator through his creation.
Whether you're looking to refresh your approach to worship or seeking new ideas to engage your congregation in environmental stewardship, this wānanga will provide practical insights and inspiration to help you lead your community in honoring and caring for God’s earth. Join us to discover practical ways to inspire your congregation and make creation care a natural part of your church’s life and mission.
Monday 16 September 2024, 7:00pm - 8:00pm, via Zoom
Register below to receive the zoom link.
Auckland Kai and Kōrero
Come and connect with other Eco Churches and A Rocha members. We will hear from a few speakers and discuss current challenges for our church communities. Dinner provided.
Speakers:
- Edina Kuki, St Heliers Presbyterian: Eco Church journey, viewing of The Week, parliament submissions etc.
- Sharon Ensor & Roxy Gahegan: St Peter's Presbyterian (Ellerslie), landscaping the church lawn space, vision and challenges
- Richard & Liza Storey: Stories from Nepal and the global eco story
Auckland Season of Creation Retreat #1
This Season of Creation, September 2024, we invite you to gather with us to reflect, listen, and wonder at God's creation. We'll be guided in prayer together and in individual contemplation of God's amazing creativity.
This is the first of two retreats. This one is at the start of the month of Season of Creation at the beach, where sand meets sea. The second will be at the end of the month on a maunga, where land meets sky.
Sat 31 August, Waiake Beach (Torbay), 9:30-11:30am
Bring weather-appropriate clothing and a journal.
Come to one or both of the contemplation gatherings, and look out for social media posts in the intermediate weeks that will encourage further reflection.
RSVP for one or both retreats here: bit.ly/SOCretreat
Dunedin Eco Church Gathering
A Dunedin gathering to connect and learn about how we engage with sustainability and creation care in our church communities.
James Beck and Kristel van Houte will be sharing stories and information about the Eco Church project across the country and facilitating conversation about our hopes and challenges here in Ōtepoti Dunedin.
When: Thursday 29 August, 7:30pm
Where: Leith Valley Church, 267 Malvern Street, Dunedin
For more info, email: james.beck@arocha.org
Taranaki Eco Church Gathering
A Taranaki gathering to connect and learn about how we engage with sustainability and Creation Care in our church communities.
When: Wednesday 14th August, 7pm-9pm
Where: Kahu Room, Taranaki Cathedral | Meri Tapu, New Plymouth
For more info, email: mo.morgan@arocha.org