Pumpkin Power: Growing Food, Fun, and Community in the Upper Clutha

This week on The Breakfast Show, we spoke with Ali Soper – lifelong gardener, host of the Your Garden Coach NZ podcast, and a member of the Upper Clutha Food Security Network – about an inspiring local initiative called Pumpkin Power.

What is Pumpkin Power?

Pumpkin Power is a season-long celebration of the humble pumpkin, recognising it as a hero crop for building food resilience in our community. The idea is simple but powerful:

• Plant pumpkins now.

• Share your pumpkin journey through stories and photos online.

• Celebrate together at a harvest festival in March.

Why Now?

Ali reminded us that the time to plant is right now. The best sowing period is between 24 September and 6 October, timed with the moon phase. Planting now ensures your pumpkins are ready for next autumn’s celebration.

Who Can Join?

Everyone’s invited – from home gardeners and schools to early childhood centres, workplaces, and community groups.

The season will culminate in a colourful Harvest Festival in March, held alongside the WAO Wānaka Harvest Festival and also featured at the Wānaka A&P Show.

The Food Security Network Behind It

Pumpkin Power is led by the Upper Clutha Food Security Network, a collaboration of local groups including:

• Community Link

• Dr Compost

• Kahu Youth

• Wastebusters

• Grow Wānaka

• Hāwea Food Forest

• QLDC

• WAO

• Your Garden Coach NZ

Together, these groups are working to strengthen food resilience across the region.

Get Involved

🌱 Now’s the time — grab your pumpkin seeds and get planting!

There are five free seed packs to give away (thanks to Kings Seeds) for:

• An ECE,

• A school,

• A community group,

• A home gardener, and

• A workplace.

To be in to win, email [email protected].

Local seeds are also available from the Wānaka & Hāwea Seed Libraries, Grow Wānaka, and other local suppliers.

And don’t forget to share your pumpkin-growing journey online to inspire others.

Wrap-Up

Pumpkin Power is all about fun, food, and community. It’s a chance to get your hands in the soil, connect with others, and celebrate together next autumn.

For tips and updates, follow Ali on the Your Garden Coach NZ podcast.