Porirua community organisation WELLfed is celebrating 10 years of providing free cooking classes, with more than 1,000 learners taking part since it began in 2016.
Based in Cannons Creek, WELLfed helps people develop practical cooking skills, build confidence in the kitchen and learn how to prepare nutritious meals on a budget.
The programme began when co-founders Kim and Rebecca discovered that a local parent wanted to learn how to bake muffins. What started as a simple cooking lesson grew into a community education programme.
WELLfed initially operated from a local school hall with eight learners before expanding into its own premises in Cannons Creek in 2019.
Today, the organisation runs regular cooking classes, practical workshops and a community garden where learners and volunteers grow fresh produce.
Over the past decade, participants have attended thousands of free classes, learning skills ranging from meal planning and food safety to budgeting and reducing food waste.
The organisation also provides opportunities for learners to build friendships, gain confidence and develop skills that can help them pursue employment, further education and other opportunities.
WELLfed’s 10th anniversary marks a decade of supporting Porirua residents through food, education and community connections.