Kelmarna Community Farm Dinners

Overview

Grey Lynn is home to some of Auckland's best boutiques, restaurants and brunch spots, with heritage villas lining the swanky suburb. Tucked in the middle of the luxurious hustle and bustle is Kelmarna Community Farm — a fact that may come as news to some, despite the central Auckland farm trucking away for more than 40 years.

The 4.5 acre farm came from humble beginnings, initially a space where locals attempted to live off the land before transforming into an area that provided Kiwis living with mental illness a place to learn skills before entering the workforce.

In 2015, the farm's purpose pivoted again, becoming an area that could produce a regenerative food model, while supporting climate change action and enhancing the community's well being overall.

This doesn't just mean a few carrots planted here and there — the farm is home to sheep, chickens, a composting area and 700 square metres of vegetables, which are sold in the farm's produce shop.

Not only does Kelmarna Community Farm grow food but they serve it too. For the past six years, the farm has partnered with local chefs to bring the community a dining series called Farm Dinners. The chefs build the Farm Dinner menu by incorporating the produce the farm has grown, as well as other sustainably sourced ingredients.

These dinners sell out fast, with only four summer dates remaining. Vegan restaurant Lutian will be in the farm kitchen on Wednesday, February 14 and Thursday February 15, followed by a collaboration with zero waste organisation Everybody Eats on Friday February 23 and Saturday February 24.