A community project in a formerly derelict part of Whanganui, rife with gang tensions and vandalised houses is now providing life skills and employment hope.
What began as one man's vision for a community garden to feed and teach gardening skills to Matipo Street residents in the suburb of Castlecliff, is being credited with transforming lives. The late Black Power leader Craig Rippon started the community garden in 2013, when many of street's residents were unemployed, inter-generational literacy rates were poor and drugs and crime were commonplace.
A transformation has resulted, with the Matipo Community Development Charitable Trust's garden and education centre winning the Supreme Award at the Trustpower National Community Awards.
Kathryn talks to Mr Rippon's sister Rosemary and his son Carlos who have carried on his legacy, and also the Whanganui Mayor, Hamish McDouall.
