Harvest Collective Values

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Apr 05, 2025By Sabrine van Rossum

Harvest Collective is a cooperative farming initiative dedicated to regenerative, community-driven agriculture. Our vision extends beyond a single farm; we aim to establish lots of regenerative farms across Aotearoa, beginning with our first farm in the Wellington region. To ensure this first farm, and all other farms after, thrives and reflects our core principles, we've begun developing our values, recognizing that they are a collaborative work in progress.

Many organisations and documents have influenced the shaping of our values. Two to call out: firstly, the Three Pillars of Herenboeren, a Dutch model for community-owned farms, which has been influential in shaping Harvest Collective. Secondly, the Spiritual Charter from Te Whare Hukahuka, which serves the collective rather than control us, and is created from love rather than the ego. Both remind us that Harvest Collective isn’t just about producing food— it’s about relationships. With the land, with each other, and with the future we want to create.

🌿 Here’s where we’ve landed so far:

1️⃣ We treat the earth as our mother – and act as responsible stewards of the land. She provides for us, so we farm in a way that regenerates soil, increases biodiversity, and gives back more than we take.
2️⃣ Everything works best in balance – nature thrives on balance, so Harvest Collective balanced growth and rest, giving and receiving, tradition and innovation. We aim to create a farming system that’s self-sustaining, fair, and in harmony with people and the planet.
3️⃣ We create space for curiosity and joy – as we’re here to learn, to experiment, and to enjoy good food together. Sun, rain, wind, and challenges— we’re here for it.

These values aren’t set in stone—they’re a starting point. We want to shape them with you, through conversation, collaboration, and experience. Let’s build something meaningful together.

📩 What values would be important to you in our first farm, and why? Join the conversation on our socials or by sending an email to us at [email protected]