The Forager's Whare

There are some basic rules, or ettiquette, that you should follow when foraging in a public space. They aren't laws, but they do rely on people being good humans.

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1. Don't damage the trees

Don't break branches to get fruit, and don't climb the trees unless you're sure it can handle your weight.

2. Don't leave rubbish

This goes for anywhere on the planet, but especially in our green public spaces!

3. Be courteous to others

Again with the being a good human.... always be kind and polite to others enjoying the space. Unless they are being anti-social (or breaking rules 1 & 2) there is no need to put on your police(wo)man's hat (even for rule number 4!).

4. Stealing vs Foraging

Remember that foraging on private land without permission is not foraging, it's stealing! Stick to public land, or get permission from the private land owner if you wish to forage on their land.

5. Take only a fair share

It's okay to take what you, and your whānau will use/eat (making juice/fermentations/bottling is fine too). Don't take what you don't need and think of others. As a general rule, we don't recommend that foraging be used for commercial purposes (i.e selling the fruit).

5. Be sure of what you are gathering before you eat it

Fruits are fairly easily identifable and generally pretty safe, but if you are foraging for fungi or herbs be sure you know what it is before you consume it to ensure it is safe. If you are not comfortable with plant identification, we recommend going with an experienced forager, or perhaps join in some of our workshops/working bees to learn alongside all of us.

6.Can you offer the trees something in return

Because the trees are not actively being managed by CCC (only the grass/weeds), they are not getting pruned/fertilised/mulched or generally looked after. Is there a local or favourite tree that you might have the ability to adopt and look after? Would you like to get involved in our working bees? Contact us via our contact details or Facebook page if you'd like to know more about how to get involved.

7. Have fun

Enjoy being out in our beautiful nature, enjoy the space and the exploration. We hope you find many treasures of ripe fruit, herbs, fungi and more. It's a great learning experience for our tamariki too, so be sure to include them if you can.