“The old world is dying and a new world is struggling to be born” – Antonio Gramsci.

Facing ever harsher extreme weather events, wild fires, floods, degrading rivers, rocketing costs of living and mounting inequality, we often ask: Why? How? What are the alternatives?

Is economic growth the problem or the solution? What is Degrowth?

We welcome Taranaki folks to join us in a two-day wānanga in mid September at our regional hub for the national Beyond Growth conference organised by Degrowth Aotearoa New Zealand (DANZ). The conference will take place at Victoria University of Wellington and will be livestreamed over the weekend.

This interactive event will provide a forum to share the latest knowledge and insights related to ecological economics, resource scarcity and the planned response measures that could be taken to strengthen resilience and minimise further resource exploitation and harm to our planet and communities.

Day 1 will focus on system change and cover topics from international learning to te ao Māori, governance and business strategies.

Day 2 will focus on creating resilient communities and collective wellbeing while exploring different tools and economic systems.

At the special Te Whare Hononga by the Taranaki Cathedral, we will gather to hear speakers from the conference, reflect on what we have heard and discuss what this means for Taranaki and ourselves. This is a good chance to meet local groups working on initiatives that constitute degrowth, see how you might want to help, and share your ideas for potential projects.

This is a free event. Hot drinks and some food will be provided. Bring some kai to share or a packed lunch if you like, also your drink bottle, cup and an open mind. Why not bring a friend? Volunteers and koha are welcome.

While formal registration is not required, we’d appreciate that you CONTACT US if you decide to join us at Te Whare Hononga, or if you have any questions or suggestions. This would help us hugely with preparations and logistics. We hope to see you there.

If you’d like to help us promote the event, download this leaflet and print a few for your workplace or favorite cafe.

Here’s a suggested booklist related to Degrowth available at Puke Ariki library.

If you’d like to attend in person in Wellington or online, register through the DANZ website.