Our Story

This one-acre Tauranga food forest has been shaped by years of observation, experimentation, and a deep respect for the land. It’s a thriving, layered landscape—over 350 fruit trees from around the world growing among herbs, perennials, flowers, and wild pockets of seasonal surprises.

I’m drawn to the unusual—the rare fruit trees, the unexpected colours, the plants that challenge the rules of what can grow here. Each one adds something unique to the forest’s character. The seasonal shifts bring constant change and learning, and that’s part of what keeps this space alive and evolving.

The sloping land brings its own set of challenges—erosion, wind, water movement—but it has also shaped the design in practical and beautiful ways. Working with the contours, we've created microclimates, protected zones, and a sense of natural flow through the gully and garden spaces. The central greenhouse, winding pathways, and hand-built stairways all reflect thoughtful design and the practical needs of both people and plants.

This project has been a shared effort from the beginning. While it serves our family day to day, it's also a place for others who are curious about regenerative growing, food resilience, and the possibilities of working with nature rather than against it. We’re excited to share what we’ve created—and what we’re still learning—as the forest continues to grow.

This is more than a food forest—it's a living, evolving ecosystem, and I'm so excited to share it with you.

Selena

Email: info@taurangafoodforest.com