Student journalist Fareh Farhan talks to Ceinwen Evans about her work tracking tree and plant growth and survival at Te Hōnonga a Iwi Restoring Rosedale Park.
Ceinwen Evans’ journey with Te Hōnonga a Iwi is a story of determination, growth, and connection. The Year 12 student’s involvement began with a simple tree-planting day advertised in the Rangitoto College newsletter.
Looking for a meaningful way to contribute to her community, she joined the initiative and soon discovered her passion for the plant growth and survival measurements role. This position, which required focus and consistency, perfectly aligned with her love for plants and trees and her preference for tasks that were independent and hands-on.
In her role, Ceinwen, who is often joined by her mother Selma, follows a meticulous process. Specific points within the restoration areas are selected to represent different conditions, and within a five-metre radius of each point, she records the species and height of every plant.
By ensuring this process is consistent—both in method and timing—she provides critical data that allows the team to understand how factors such as cover crops or soil treatments impact plant growth. Her work helps the project identify the most effective restoration techniques, turning raw data into actionable insights.
Ceinwen’s neurodiverse perspective adds a unique strength to her contributions. While her condition influences her communication and understanding, it also enables her to focus intently on tasks and follow consistent methods, ensuring high-quality work.
The project’s community has embraced her differences, creating an inclusive environment where she feels supported. This acceptance has fostered a sense of belonging and safety, allowing her to thrive despite challenges such as her chronic pain condition.
Her most memorable moment with Te Hōnonga a Iwi reflects the heart of the initiative: community and joy. During a seemingly ordinary working bee, strangers bonded effortlessly over planting tasks and the day ended with everyone playfully tossing balls of cover crop seeds and soil onto a hillside, creating an atmosphere of pure happiness and connection.
Through her involvement, Ceinwen has gained a deeper understanding of environmental restoration and how green spaces can be integrated into urban settings. It has also strengthened her connection to the local community, introducing her to a supportive and welcoming group of people. Her improved ability to identify trees and her growing knowledge of nature are skills she’s particularly proud of, but it’s the sense of purpose and fulfilment she’s found that truly stands out.
Ceinwen’s advice to anyone considering joining a restoration project is simple yet powerful: don’t hesitate. “People will welcome a helping hand,” she says. Her message to those who feel their differences might limit their ability to contribute is equally inspiring. Regardless of challenges or abilities, there is always a way to make a difference and find a community where you belong.
Her journey with Te Hōnonga a Iwi is a testament to the impact of teamwork, persistence, and inclusivity. It’s proof that everyone—no matter their circumstances—has something valuable to contribute to making the world a better place.