He Māhuri Tōtara ki Waihōanga was a crew of passionate people spending time in a beautiful place, asking big questions and learning how to follow Jesus together.

In October, young adults and youth ministry leaders from across Aotearoa gathered on Kamau Taurua / Quarantine Island for He Māhuri Tōtara, a weekend of reflection, learning, and connection with creation. Guided by mana whenua, we listened to stories held in the land, explored eco-theology, planted trees, and watched toroa soar over the harbour. It was a time alive with wairua — grounding, hopeful, and deeply moving.

Fourteen young adults from across Aotearoa gathered in Whāingaroa for a He Māhuri Tōtara weekend of conservation, community and faith. From planting native trees and setting predator traps to sharing kai and exploring what it means to care for God's creation, the weekend was a chance to grow as leaders rooted in hope and restoration.

In 2019, the Alpine Presbytery gathering in Christchurch made a stand for the environment. Fifty church leaders from the Canterbury region listened and then unanimously agreed to support a motion to make the environment a priority in their parishes.