Using kai to support wellbeing, learning and connection

“Food wastage is minimal. Any food scraps are used in our compost heap for our garden and for another community member to feed their pigs.” – Tumuaki

Across Healthy Active Learning schools, the health workforce has shifted its focus from influencing kai and inu policies to strengthening the wider food environment for tamariki and whānau. This recognises kai as both a wellbeing enabler and a powerful context for learning and connection.

The 2020 introduction of Ka Ora, Ka Ako – Healthy School Lunches Programme supported this approach, with Healthy Active Learning teams working alongside schools to transition towards sustainable, school‑led food models.

At Portland School Te Kura o Tikorangi, the in‑school kaitunu (cook) prepares shared lunches using seasonal ingredients and reflecting ākonga preferences. Kaiako and ākonga eat together, creating daily opportunities for kōrero about nutrition, culture and wellbeing.

The tumuaki says the smells from the kitchen often spark classroom conversations, reinforcing learning beyond the lunch table and strengthening engagement throughout the school day.