On the 25th of November we gathered online for The Bloom Room, our end of year hui for farmers and the wider Rere ki uta rere ki tai – Living Soil Project team. Although we were meeting through screens, the feeling in the room was warm, open, and full of connection. This hui was designed to close out the year together, celebrate progress, acknowledge challenges, and share honest reflections from across the kaupapa.
Opening and reflections from the year
Kiri opened the evening and set the tone for a relaxed and supportive space. We then moved into our reflections session, inviting everyone to share the highs and lows of their year. This simple practice created a space where people could acknowledge the tough moments, while still recognising the growth, wins, and bright spots that helped carry them forward.
There were stories of personal milestones, resilience through unexpected challenges, and gratitude for the relationships and learning built through the project. It set a beautiful foundation for the rest of the evening.
Insights from our guest speakers
We were privileged to hear from three guest speakers who each brought valuable knowledge and perspective to our final hui of the year.
Chris Brennan, Moxi
Chris shared practical insights on on farm carbon opportunities. His presentation explored where the opportunities sit for farmers, what is emerging in the space, and how future pathways might support both environmental outcomes and farm business resilience.
Alison Dewes, Tipu Whenua
Alison took us through the biggest opportunities she is seeing within farm systems across Aotearoa. Her focus on practical, high impact levers resonated strongly with farmers in the room. She highlighted the importance of soil health, improved efficiency, and system design that supports long term resilience.
Sagara Kumara, Lincoln University
Sagara presented findings from Lincoln University’s work on integrating seaweed biostimulants into diverse pastures. He shared the outcomes they are seeing in pasture performance, animal health, and the wider system. This sparked plenty of interest and questions from farmers who have been trialling similar practices on farm this year.
Each presentation was followed by a Q and A session, giving farmers the chance to dig deeper, share their own experiences, and connect the science back to what is happening on the ground.
A bit of fun with Kahoot
To keep things light we wrapped up with our Kahoot quiz. It covered farming, soil, animals, and key parts of our kaupapa to see who had been paying attention this year. It was fast, competitive, and full of laughs. Thank you to everyone who brought their competitive spirit.
Looking ahead to 2026
Before closing, we took some time to look ahead at what is coming next for the project. We reflected on what we have achieved in the last year, the momentum that has been built, and the opportunities that lie in front of us. There is a lot to be excited about as we move into 2026.
Closing the year together
One of our farmers, L-J closed the hui with words of gratitude for the openness, honesty, and energy that everyone contributed. Even online, the sense of whanaungatanga was clear. The Bloom Room was a reminder of why this kaupapa matters and how much strength sits within this community of farmers, researchers, and supporters.
Thank you to everyone who joined us. Your mahi, your stories, and your willingness to keep learning together are what make this project powerful. We look forward to growing more connection, more knowledge, and more resilient farming systems with you in the year ahead.
