Orewa College students, with support from Bunnings and the school community, brought new life to our campus by planting donated flowers and greenery in student-built planter boxes. A vibrant, collaborative project that showcases student leadership and environmental pride.

Planter Boxes: A Growing Success 

What began as a simple idea has grown into something truly beautiful at Orewa College. Thanks to the mahi of our student leaders and the generous support of Bunnings, our school environment is now greener, flowerier and more welcoming for everyone.

How it all started

• Senior students had previously built planter boxes as part of a hands-on learning project.

• With these boxes sitting empty, two student leaders—Raina Baek and Pipper Geyer—proposed a new plan: bring the boxes to life with flowers and native plants.

• Their idea was approved by the Property and Maintenance team, and the project began.

A community effort 

• Raina and Pipper organised a trip to Bunnings, where they carefully chose soil, flowers, and plants that would thrive on campus.

• Bunnings kindly donated the materials, helping turn this dream into reality.

• On planting day, student volunteers rolled up their sleeves and got stuck in.

• The teamwork and enthusiasm were incredible—making the planting process fun, fast, and full of pride.

What we’ve grown

• The once-empty planter boxes are now filled with colour, life, and aroha.

• These green spaces add beauty to our campus and create a more welcoming environment for students, staff, and visitors.

• More than just plants, we’ve grown a stronger sense of kaitiakitanga—caring for our place together.

“Seeing everyone work together and enjoy the process was really rewarding,” says Pipper Geyer, one of the student leaders.

A heartfelt ngā mihi to: Bunnings for their generous donation of soil and plants, Orewa College staff for supporting student leadership and all the students who gave their time and energy to brighten up our kura.

This project is a small but powerful example of how community spirit can make a big difference. Mā te mahi tahi, ka ora ai te mahi – through working together, the work will flourish.