Student journalist Fareh Farhan talks to Eva and Marina Stowers about their roles as Youth Leaders for Te Hōnonga a Iwi Restoring Rosedale Park.
Eva and Marina Stowers are twin sisters who have a shared passion for environmental conservation and have been dedicated members of Te Hōnonga a Iwi’s working bees for a couple of years.
Both Kristin School students, their commitment to restoring Rosedale Park has not only strengthened their connection to their local community but also set them on a path to take on new responsibilities such as being water-testing youth leaders in 2025.
Through their journey, Eva and Marina have cultivated skills, experiences and a profound appreciation for the environment.
For Eva, the journey began with a school tree-planting session several years ago. “Being within walking distance from school made it convenient,” she recalls, noting how the proximity also aligned with the low-carbon values of the project. Motivated by her school’s environmental groups, Eva soon became a regular attendee, drawn by the opportunity to contribute to a cause greater than herself.
Similarly, Marina first heard about the initiative through her teacher, Sarah Wakeford, in 2022. A cover crop sowing session sparked her interest, and she found herself captivated by the project’s sense of purpose and community. “From then on, I’ve been involved in both school and community working bees,” she shares.
At the working bees, both Eva and Marina have taken on leadership roles, guiding new volunteers and ensuring safety during tasks. Eva explains, “My main responsibility is passing on the knowledge I’ve gained to help everyone handle equipment safely.” For Marina, assisting others and becoming familiar with the restoration’s facets such as planting and community gardens has been equally rewarding.
These experiences have equipped them for their upcoming roles as water-testing youth leaders. Eva feels a deep appreciation for the scale of the project, which motivates her to take on this new challenge. Marina’s involvement in water testing began when she helped her older sister in the same role, providing her with hands-on experience and insights into the process. Both are eager to monitor the waterways and quantify the impact of the restoration.
Looking ahead, as water-testing leaders, the twins aim to use scientific methods to assess the health of Rosedale’s rivers. Eva is particularly excited about applying a scientific lens to measure oxygen levels and analyse the effects of nearby construction on the environment.
Marina looks forward to tracking the river’s progress and addressing any issues such as pollution or trouble spots.
Reflecting on their most impactful experiences, Eva highlights the pride she feels when she sees trees and cover crops she planted growing into thriving ecosystems. “It’s an extremely rewarding feeling,” she says.
Marina fondly recalls a planting session earlier this year with a large turnout. “Seeing so many people working towards the same goal was empowering,” she adds, impressed by how much was accomplished in a short time.
Participating in Te Hōnonga a Iwi has transformed their perspectives on environmental conservation. Eva emphasises the accessibility of climate action for everyone, regardless of experience or background. Marina echoes this sentiment, noting the importance of community collaboration and the support of various stakeholders.
Their involvement has also shaped their personal goals. Eva has gained a deeper understanding of what matters most to her, including the value of community engagement. Marina, though undecided about her future career, knows she wants to work in a field that benefits the environment and its communities.
When asked what makes Te Hōnonga a Iwi unique, both highlight the innovative and community-driven nature of the initiative. Eva is inspired by the project’s connection to te ao Māori principles which foster a deeper relationship with the land. Marina admires the innovative use of bioreactors and the emphasis on equity, such as involving schools and retirement villages in tree care.
In their final reflections, for Eva, the word “meaningful” encapsulates her journey with Te Hōnonga a Iwi. “I’m incredibly grateful to have made a tangible difference and my past and future actions will continue to contribute to a project ‘bigger than myself’,” she says.
Marina chooses the word “rewarding,” reflecting on the project’s achievements and her role in its success.
Together, Eva and Marina Stowers exemplify the values of Te Hōnonga a Iwi. Their dedication, leadership and vision for the future inspire those around them and ensure that the project’s legacy will continue to grow stronger with each passing year.
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