About us
Enabling kids
to get growing


Growing OKE
What is Oke all about
Oke provide Kiwi kids the opportunity to learn life and social skills by introducing productive gardens into schools. By giving the kids the tools to learn, Oke are empowering schools and communities, ultimately providing a better place for everyone. Learn more about the Oke Growing A Future initiative…
Oke plans to give
every kiwi kid a
school garden
At Oke Charity, our mission is to cultivate a love for learning and healthy living in children by building school gardens throughout Aotearoa. We believe that every child should have access to fresh, nutritious food and the opportunity to learn about where their food comes from.
Through our work, we aim to inspire and educate our tamariki on the importance of sustainable agriculture, environmental stewardship, and community engagement. We strive to create safe and nurturing outdoor spaces where children can connect with nature, develop life skills, and build meaningful relationships with their peers.
We are committed to promoting equity and inclusivity in our projects, ensuring that every child, regardless of their background or ability, has equal access to the benefits of our school gardens. Our goal is to empower children to become confident, resilient, and socially responsible individuals who are equipped to make a positive impact in their communities and the world.
Check out our Working Bee Schedule to see the next school receiving Growing A Future and find out more about our awesome partners.
key outcomes
What makes us diferent?

Building
We build school gardens at zero cost to schools

Learning
The gardens we build can be used for all manner of learning, not just gardening

Engaging
We help schools engage with their communities through gardening
Meet the Oke Crew

Paul Dickson
- Founder/CEO
Paul came up with the crazy idea of creating the #H2HWalk back in 2012. After the successes of the fundraiser, he decided to do things a little bit backward and then create the OKE Charity. The daily tasks required to run OKE are carried out by Paul…when he’s not on Daddy Daycare duty!

Helen Porter
- School Mate
Helen joined the Oke Crew in March 2023, as the new Oke School Mate. With her background in retail gardening and her love for teaching kids how to garden, Helen is a fantastic addition to the Oke Crew, helping schools to make the most of their school gardens.

Alisi Kivalu
- South Auckland Chief Go-Getter
Alisi joined the Oke Crew in April 2021 as the South Auckland Chief Go-Getter. Living and breathing Otara life, Alisi is helping to connect the Oke Charity with the community where it all began. Whilst getting stuck in to help build more school gardens.
The Oke Board aka The Kick Ass Oke Squad (KAOS)
Anj Dickson
- Treasurer
Pete White
- Trustee
Rebekah
Watts
- Chair aka Queen Bee
Janna
Ash
- Trustee
We're
Looking
- Secretary
Shannil
Varma
- Trustee